Musics – Montreal Times – Montreal's English Weekly Newspaperhttp://mtltimes.ca
Montreal Times - Montreal's English Weekly NewspaperMon, 19 Nov 2018 21:33:05 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.8Engelbert Humperdinck coming to Montrealhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/engelbert-humperdinck-coming-to-montreal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/engelbert-humperdinck-coming-to-montreal/#respondTue, 13 Nov 2018 17:39:20 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=53015Engelbert Humperdinck never wanted to be a singer. A career in music, yes, but he was extraordinarily shy. The youngest boy of a family of ten children originally from Leicester, England, he grew up in Madras, India, where his father was stationed during World War II. Engelbert’s childhood was dominated by the love of his […]

]]>Engelbert Humperdinck never wanted to be a singer. A career in music, yes, but he was extraordinarily shy. The youngest boy of a family of ten children originally from Leicester, England, he grew up in Madras, India, where his father was stationed during World War II. Engelbert’s childhood was dominated by the love of his parents and his brothers and sisters. He knew he could sing harmonies, but the power of his own voice came as a surprise to him and other people. “It’s just so loud, but I discovered I can be tender with it at the same time.”

Like all great icons, he is a man of great depth – masculine and loving, shy inside and uninhibited onstage, prepared to play the sex god to the hilt and still, at this stage of his career, managing to get away with it. “My mother’s side of the family had the signing voice so I must have inherited that from her. My father was a man’s man – strong, athletic, charismatic. And I like to do all kind of men things. I love sports, golf, tennis martial arts, soccer, skiing, but at the same time, yes I do appreciate women.”

In a career spanning almost 50 years, Engelbert has generated sales in excess of 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame, and Leicester Walk of Fame. He has performed for the Queen four times, several presidents and many heads of state. He has recorded everything from the most romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and even gospel. His unique voice has charmed millions of fans around the globe. However, it’s not just the voice, but the man himself, with his endearing sense of humor and self-deprecating jokes. Engelbert has managed to strike a new chord with a younger generation after appearing on MTV several times.

Engelbert entered the world as Arnold George Dorsey. At the age of 11, he started studying music and playing the saxophone. When he was 17, Engelbert found himself playing at a pub that sponsored a singing contest. Goaded by his friends to enter, he put down his sax and for the first time revealed another vocal talent: impersonations. Arnold George Dorsey gave an incredible impersonation comedian of Jerry Lewis – and was quickly dubbed Gerry Dorsey by his fans. It soon became his professional stage name.

Gerry Dorsey was very popular on the UK music circuit and in 1959 he released a single called, “Crazybells/ Mister Music Man” on Decca Records. However, he contracted tuberculosis, which silenced him for six months and nearly ended his rising music career. Upon regaining his health, Gerry Dorsey knew he had to end his former image to make a comeback as a strong, dynamic performer. A former manager suggested the new name, Engelbert Humperdinck, taken from the Austrian composer who wrote Hansel and Gretel. It was outrageous enough to be memorable. And thus was born the soon-to-be legend, Engelbert Humperdinck.

Engelbert exploded on to the music scene in the sixties with The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. His sixties did not so much swing as rage. The shy handsome boy catapulted almost instantly to world icon. He became great friends with Elvis Presley and the two legends often performed each other’s songs. His first single in the charts was “Release Me,” which went into the Guinness Book of Records for achieving 56 consecutive weeks on the charts. It was No. 1 in 11 countries. The song was re-released after being used for a UK national television commercial for John Smith’s beer.

The following decades saw Engelbert touring the world to sell-out crowds. Engelbert seems to take great pleasure in every moment on stage, a place where he can lose his inhibitions and no longer be the child who was once shy. Engelbert’s music has transcended time and his voice still continues to reach out to people now serving to transport and inspire, to embrace and to provoke feelings and emotions…ingredients that are no doubt the essence of his long-lasting success.

]]>The People’s Gospel Choir is back by popular demand for a Community Christmas Concert at Victoria Hall. Saturday, December 8, 2018 @ 7:30 – $25 adults, $10 children under 12, Victoria Hall, 4626 Sherbrooke W., Westmount

Special guest Sylvie DesGroseilliers will join the choir for a resounding tribute to Aretha Franklin. Sylvie DesGroseilliers is acclaimed in Quebec for her outstanding “Women of Soul” concerts and her a cappella rendition of Amazing Grace on “La Voix.”

The choir was founded in 1992 and celebrated their 25th Anniversary last year. Under the musical direction of Mr. Kimble Sherwood the choir embodies the cultural, racial, and religious diversity of our city.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-peoples-gospel-choir-tickets-for-sale-video/feed/0Quick Talk with Multi Platinum Artist LAUVhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/quick-talk-with-multi-platinum-artist-lauv/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/quick-talk-with-multi-platinum-artist-lauv/#respondWed, 31 Oct 2018 00:21:42 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=52516On August 4th, the second day of the Osheaga festival, Ari Staprans Leff, known by his stage name LAUV, performed for his first time in Montreal. Under a scorching mid day sun and a massive crowd, he wasn’t just a refreshing dance party, he was an adrenaline shot … At that moment, we knew we […]

]]>On August 4th, the second day of the Osheaga festival, Ari Staprans Leff, known by his stage name LAUV, performed for his first time in Montreal. Under a scorching mid day sun and a massive crowd, he wasn’t just a refreshing dance party, he was an adrenaline shot … At that moment, we knew we had get him for an interview.

His name might not be that familiar to some of you, after all he only released his debut EP ”Lost in the light” in late 2015 – but if you opened the radio lately there’s a good chance you’ve heard his song. Lauv’s biggest hit ‘I like Me Better” was released on may 2017 while he was only 23 and he hasn’t stopped getting achievements since.

That very same month he began touring across the state. In September he became supporting act on a Ed Sheeran tour that crossed all the way trough Asia, kicking off in Singapore and stopping in places such as Jakarta, Indonesia and the Philippines. At the start of 2018, he embarked on his first world tour and by June Lauv was ranked number one on the Billboard’s emerging artist chart – a position he held for a total of 13 weeks.

That being say, I think you get the ideas, the American singer is growing quick and internationally ! He’s sharp, funny and his beats are resonating repeatedly on dance floors and radio stations across the globe. But beyond his sold out show and billion cumulative streams on Spotify, we wanted to know and understand more about the artist behind the stage.

Self described as hopeless romantic, Lauv is the kind of artist that leave a box called ”My blue thoughts” so that audience can write whatever is on their mind at the moment. Sometimes it’s just random desire to eat McDonald, but often it include serious things such as loss of family or depression and Lauv commemorates those on a blog to bind fans together – A sort of online group therapy. He describes himself as the kid who was a little “weird,” who had a Myspace banner that read “Be Yourself,” who wrote love songs before he had a girlfriend and liked sad tunes before he had ever been in a breakup.

You see he have a unique vision and a fascinating creative mind that doesn’t stop surprising. You’ll love his sense of humour, his positivity and of course his sound. That’s why we were so excited when Lauv blessed us with a quick interview so we could learn more about his interest, busy lifestyle and amazing personality.

See the Interview Below .

What did you think of the city and the Osheaga experience
It was my first time playing in Montreal, and unfortunately, we couldn’t stay long to explore the city or see any of the other bands perform, but the vibe of the whole festival was incredible!

Are you constantly on the road? What does your day-to-day look like at the moment ?
Ha-ha it’s a lot of flying and driving and recording and shooting and trying to eat & shower here and there (just kidding…sort of). I’ve started working on an album which feels really good, as well as some other songs with some friends that might come sooner

What makes you happy lately?
Creating! For the past year or so I was touring so much and barely home so I couldn’t really write, but I’ve been feeling like I’m hitting a new zone that I haven’t been in for awhile.

Anything you would do with your time if you didn’t work in music?
probably something with food and/or psychology. Or maybe both. I can’t cook

Any other artistic sides that particularly inspire you or that you would like to develop?
Yes! I want to eventually write bigger pieces, whether that be books or scripts or something else. That and clothes. I have some ideas for a line in the future.

Fondest musical memories as you were growing up?
Sitting in my room and looking up green day guitar tabs, crying to John Mayer songs at breakfast, etc.

First concert you attended?
First one I remember was a My Chemical Romance show, it was lit.

What, in your opinion, is overrated/underrated?
A)Overrated – Pineapple on pizza.
Underrated – Squidward in general

What are your thoughts on classifying music by genres? Is it something you think about when you write and compose?

I think the idea of our brains wanting to classify things is totally natural, but I don’t really listen by genre and I definitely don’t like to create that way. I think a lot of other people are the same now, music is a lot freer and more cross-cultural.

What can you tell us about your upcoming projects?
They taste like spaghetti-o’s

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/quick-talk-with-multi-platinum-artist-lauv/feed/0The hockey song inducted in the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Famehttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-hockey-song-inducted-in-the-canadian-songwriters-hall-of-fame/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-hockey-song-inducted-in-the-canadian-songwriters-hall-of-fame/#respondWed, 24 Oct 2018 17:22:01 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=52510Iconic anthem The Hockey Song, written and originally performed by legendary Canadian folksinger Stompin’ Tom Connors, will be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (CSHF) in a special ceremony on Saturday, October 27, in partnership with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Released in 1973, the beloved song is celebrating its 45th anniversary as a […]

]]>Iconic anthem The Hockey Song, written and originally performed by legendary Canadian folksinger Stompin’ Tom Connors, will be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (CSHF) in a special ceremony on Saturday, October 27, in partnership with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Released in 1973, the beloved song is celebrating its 45th anniversary as a staple tune played throughout Canadian and American NHL arenas, and at every Toronto Maple Leafs home game.

Stompin’ Tom Connors

A quintessentially Canadian song about a quintessentially Canadian game, The Hockey Song is the best-known example of Connors’ unique brand of fervent nationalism. Its up-tempo style with a cowboy-booted backbeat reflected the swift pace of the game, and in Tom’s typical catchy novelty-song style, his three verses corresponded to the three periods of a hockey game with each verse calling the action like a play-by-play announcer, in a familiar structure that has endeared fans and players alike. Stompin’ Tom was often invited to perform it at NHL games, and his song became not only a hockey theme song, but an unofficial national anthem.

Connors’ hockey anthem has been recorded by artists as diverse as contemporary country’s Corb Lund, country-bluegrass veterans The Good Brothers, and pop superstar Avril Lavigne. The song reached No. 29 on Billboard’s Canadian Hot 100 chart on March 23, 2013, a few weeks after his death.

“This year, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame is partnering with events that share a connection with the songs we’re inducting,” said Vanessa Thomas, Executive Director of CSHF. “There’s not a more fitting stage to celebrate Stompin’ Tom’s The Hockey Song than at an NHL game. We are very excited to see the crowd’s passion for the song and to honour this classic into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.”

On October 27, Tom Connors Jr., son of late Stompin’ Tom Connors, and family will be presented with a plaque recognizing The Hockey Song’s induction to the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame at Scotiabank Arena, home of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Later that evening, the family will also receive a special gift before a live performance of The Hockey Song by chart-topping award winner and platinum selling Canadian artist Tim Hicks at the Maple Leafs versus Winnipeg Jets game.

“The Connors family would like to express how appreciative we are to the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame for inducting The Hockey Song to join so many other great Canadian songs that have helped shape our identity,” said Tom Connors Jr. “Tom wrote this song in 1971 and it’s wonderful to see how fans to this day, continue to call it their “Hockey Anthem” at all levels and ages of hockey players around the world. We hope his song will inspire others to pen memorable, identifiably-Canadian songs in the future for all to enjoy.”

Country singer-songwriter and Canadian nationalist Stompin’ Tom Connors (1936 – 2013) was born in Saint John, New Brunswick. He won six Juno awards between 1971 and 1975 and was honoured with many lifetime achievement awards including a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

The Hockey Song was first released in 1973 by Tom Connors’s own company, Boot Records, and by Capitol Records, on his album “Stompin’ Tom and The Hockey Song” (BOS 7112). An action shot of a National Hockey League game was pictured on the cover of the album. The song was also featured on the A side of a 45-rpm single (BT-066). The Hockey Song also appears on Connors’s gold album “Live at the Horseshoe,” recorded in November 1973 at Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern. Connors later recorded an updated version for his 2008 album, “The Ballad of Stompin’ Tom.” In June 2017, ole / anthem legacy released the Golden Jubilee collector’s CD, “Stompin’ Tom Connors”, which included The Hockey Song along with a number of his greatest hits. ole continues to honour the Stompin’ Tom legacy through re-releases of his past works, exposing the legendary Canadian performer to new audiences across the country.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-hockey-song-inducted-in-the-canadian-songwriters-hall-of-fame/feed/0Foreigner Cold As Ice Tour coming to Montreal – Tickets availablehttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/foreigner-cold-as-ice-tour-coming-to-montreal-tickets-available/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/foreigner-cold-as-ice-tour-coming-to-montreal-tickets-available/#respondTue, 23 Oct 2018 15:13:02 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=52456Foreigner, the band behind I Want To Know What Love Is, Cold As Ice, Juke Box Hero, and so many others of rock’s most enduring anthems, announces the Cold As Ice tour. The legendary rock band will heat up the cold Canadian nights with a series of hot blooded tour dates. This tour comes on […]

]]>Foreigner, the band behind I Want To Know What Love Is, Cold As Ice, Juke Box Hero, and so many others of rock’s most enduring anthems, announces the Cold As Ice tour. The legendary rock band will heat up the cold Canadian nights with a series of hot blooded tour dates. This tour comes on the heels of the Toronto world-premiere the new musical, Juke Box Hero at the iconic Ed Mirvish Theatre.

This year, the band headlined shows in the USA, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, including sold-out appearances at London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House. This past summer, Foreigner starred in a 30-city, USA summer tour with Whitesnake and Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience in support.

Since the 1977 release of their first hit Feels Like The First Time and their self-titled debut album on Atlantic Records, Foreigner has been universally hailed as one of the world’s most popular rock acts with 10 multi-platinum albums, 16 Top 30 hits, and worldwide album sales exceeding 80 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including Jukebox Hero, Cold As Ice, Feels Like The First Time, Hot Blooded, Waiting For A Girl Like You, Urgent, Head Games, Say You Will, Dirty White Boy, Long, Long Way From Home, and the worldwide #1 hit, I Want To Know What Love Is, Foreigner continues to rock the charts more than forty years into the game.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/foreigner-cold-as-ice-tour-coming-to-montreal-tickets-available/feed/0Jessie Reyez receive 2018 Allan Slaight Honour (music video)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-receive-2018-allan-slaight-honour-music-video/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-receive-2018-allan-slaight-honour-music-video/#respondThu, 18 Oct 2018 14:38:17 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=52331Jessie Reyez – Canada’s Walk of Fame announced today that Jessie Reyez will receive its 2018 Allan Slaight Honour. The Honour recognizes young Canadians who are turning their musical talent into inspiration and are having a positive impact on the music industry. Reyez began writing her own music in high school and saw her 2016 […]

]]>Jessie Reyez – Canada’s Walk of Fame announced today that Jessie Reyez will receive its 2018 Allan Slaight Honour. The Honour recognizes young Canadians who are turning their musical talent into inspiration and are having a positive impact on the music industry. Reyez began writing her own music in high school and saw her 2016 single “Figures” hit the Canadian Hot 100 in 2017. She won the Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2018 and has received multiple other award nominations. Reyez will accept the honour at THE 2018 CANADA’S WALK OF FAME AWARDS show on December 1in Toronto. The show is set to air on CTV in December.

“Jessie is such a great example of the spirit of the Allan Slaight Honour,” said Jeffrey Latimer, CEO of Canada’s Walk of Fame. “Her music, work ethic, success and unlimited potential for the future show other young Canadian musicians what is possible!”

“I’m really honoured to be recognized. These past few years have been a dream, and to be honest, my team and I have made it a point to continue to work hard and not lose momentum; however, because of this decision, we rarely get moments to reflect and enjoy the blessings that music has provided,” said Jessie. “That being said, I’m very grateful for receiving this recognition, especially at home, and for getting this moment to pause and reflect and be thankful. In Toronto, I’ve had so many people positively influence me in our music community, so to be a recipient for something that celebrates positive influence and inspiration is an honour. Thank you.”

.“Jessie epitomizes everything that my father Allan had in mind when this award was created in his honour,” said Gary Slaight. “Rising from humble beginnings here in Toronto, her determination, talent, ambition and bedrock family roots have been the compass that has led her to greater recognition and growing international success. We wish her the very best in the years to come.”

Jessie Reyez

“Jessie is an incredibly unique artist, with an outstanding, worldly voice,” said Randy Lennox, President, Bell Media. “She is in excellent company with previous honourees and it’s indicative of her limitless talent and dedication to the industry.”

Canada’s Walk of Fame recognizes Canadians who have excelled on national and international stages in their respective fields, including music, sports, film and television, literary, visual and performing arts, science, innovation, philanthropy and social justice. In its 20th year, the organization is deepening its commitment and broadening its impact across Canada with new initiatives including Hometown Stars, presented by Cineplex (where Inductees receive stars in Toronto and in their hometowns), and expanded existing programs like the RBC Emerging Musician Program in order to mean more to more people more often. CTV is the broadcast partner of Canada’s Walk of Fame. John Brunton, Lindsay Cox, Jeffrey Latimer and Randy Lennox are Executive Producers of CANADA’S WALK OF FAME AWARDS.

THE 2018 CANADA’S WALK OF FAME AWARDS broadcast is slated for December 2018. Additional broadcast details will be announced at a later date.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-receive-2018-allan-slaight-honour-music-video/feed/0Introducing GAYA Debut EP and First Solo Project – Little Birdhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/introducing-gaya-debut-ep-and-first-solo-project-little-bird/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/introducing-gaya-debut-ep-and-first-solo-project-little-bird/#respondFri, 05 Oct 2018 16:47:55 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51750She stunned the jury of ”La Voix” with her remarkable on-stage presence and her electric voice in 2015. After shining on the popular TVA show, Gaya is finally back to seduce the rest of the province with her first Solo Project . We attended the intimate Ep launch at the ti-Agrikol, where Sanya Michel […]

]]>She stunned the jury of ”La Voix” with her remarkable on-stage presence and her electric voice in 2015. After shining on the popular TVA show, Gaya is finally back to seduce the rest of the province with her first Solo Project .

We attended the intimate Ep launch at the ti-Agrikol, where Sanya Michel Élia, Alias Gaya was presenting her debut record – Little Bird , as well as celebrating her 30th anniversary. It goes without saying that the place was packed with ecstatic friends, family and fans of the unstoppable force.

She was brighter than ever playing her latest five compositions that moved us from a different world and style at each song. Singing in multiples language, her talent was radiating, especially with the badass sound of her seven band members – The TeamGaya band

She already demonstrated her raw energy and animal side on the stage of the Québec version of The Voice, but she’s presenting a much more intimate dive into her colorful universe. Each song is a glimpse into her soft and tender personality, that she’ll deliver with the same powerful, sweet and soulful voice.

Gaya is definitely returning to us with maturity and confidence – I don’t necessarily mean more into womanhood, although she did just give birth to a baby last year, but rather that she’s exploring her own sound and style and you could absolutely feel her enjoyment and that freedom at her EP release

She’s mastering her voice’s pitch and tones on a wide range of musical world. Sometimes fusing R&B with folks and a layer of jazz. Sometimes it’s world music with a funky bass-line. Always connected to her Haitian roots and with the gospel influences from her younger age, she loves to play around with musical style. Singing about liberty, compromise and passion from a new relation. Jumping from french, to english and creole – this sweet musical journey (available for only 5$!) is one you’ll definitively want to discover.

That being said, the ambiance was instantly set at the Ti-Agrikol once Sanya took the floor, infecting the crowd immediately with her electric energy to begin her night of celebration. Gaya played all of her new songs accompanied by a brass section, two backing vocal, a bassist, a guitarist, a drummer and a keyboardist – all of whom were brilliant and grooving like beasts.

Gaya included a cover of Uptown funk, along with a tribute to the late Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. She first performed that cover of Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson on the stage of the famous Québec show.

Check out the performance below :

Already armed with a diploma in ”technique policière”, The singer from brossard left her study in law in 2009 to devote herself entirely to her music.

” I want to give myself the chance to be a singer ”

After touring with the Boogie Wonder Band and performing at ”La Voix” in 2015, Gaya introduced a young child into her life. She took some time in 2017 from her pregnancy to write Little Bird, an album she wanted to her image with her sound ; ‘I didn’t want a album to sell, I wanted to give the public my hearth and something authentic.”

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/introducing-gaya-debut-ep-and-first-solo-project-little-bird/feed/0Alina Baraz in Montreal at Corona Theatre (video)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/alina-baraz-in-montreal-at-corona-theatre-video/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/alina-baraz-in-montreal-at-corona-theatre-video/#respondFri, 21 Sep 2018 13:29:11 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51833Alina Baraz has shared her latest song “Feels Right” accompanied by a video directed by Alina herself. The track marks her first new single since her highly-anticipated project The Color Of You dropped in April, which has been streamed over 361 million times across all platforms. The new song’s title and lyrics are a straightforward […]

]]>Alina Baraz has shared her latest song “Feels Right” accompanied by a video directed by Alina herself. The track marks her first new single since her highly-anticipated project The Color Of You dropped in April, which has been streamed over 361 million times across all platforms. The new song’s title and lyrics are a straightforward expression of sticking with your gut even if you’re not totally sure. In Alina’s own words:

“Feels Right’ is about giving in and losing yourself in the moment. I wrote and recorded this song in the same day and it’s really special because it’s a demo. We tried to re-record it but it felt like it was against the grain of what the song is supposed to stand for. This is a living personification of my conscious and thoughts as reflected through the hectic highs and lows and me just saying fuck it and embracing these moments.” – Alina Baraz

Alina is on her own headlining tour now across North America. She just played two nights at Brooklyn Steel and will be in Montreal at the Corona Theatre this Sunday night September 23, 2018, as well as in Toronto Monday night ( September 24, 2018) at the Phoenix Concert Theatre.Then Alina Baraz will be heading to her hometown of Cleveland to perform at the House of Blues Wednesday Night September 26, 2018.

Alina Baraz

is touring with Cautious Clay, JMSN and Lolo Zouaï joining on select dates.

Special VIP and Meet & Greet packages are also available in each city at the link below.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/alina-baraz-in-montreal-at-corona-theatre-video/feed/0The underground world of Music Posters at UQAM Centre de Designhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/underground-world-of-music-posters-at-uqam-design-center/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/underground-world-of-music-posters-at-uqam-design-center/#respondWed, 12 Sep 2018 18:08:52 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51552Presenting the exhibit Non conforme – The Underground Universe of Elzo Durt and Sébastien Lépine until September 23rd – You’ll definitely want to stop by the infamous UQAM Centre de Design to discover the unbelievable music world of these two emerging graphic artists. Elzo Durt and Sébastien Lépine are both part of a contemporary movement of […]

]]>Presenting the exhibit Non conforme – The Underground Universe of Elzo Durt and Sébastien Lépineuntil September 23rd – You’ll definitely want to stop by the infamous UQAM Centre de Design to discover the unbelievable music world of these two emerging graphic artists.

Elzo Durt and Sébastien Lépine are both part of a contemporary movement of poster artisans who usually print their own works on silkscreen, in limited editions, and offer them for sale at music festivals and events dedicated to underground graphics. Some of these excellent, rare posters quickly become expensive collector’s items – But even more interesting is the impressive selection of posters featured from which you will most certainly recognize a band or two.

Presenting artworks that were used by musicians such as Jack White, The National, Sigur Ros and Beach House to name a few – This exhibits quickly become a satisfying game of references.

Conceived by curator and professor emeritus Marc H. Choko, the exhibition introduces the public to the work of two poster designers who studied graphic design before embarking on a practice inspired by their love of music. The works of both these artists, with similar backgrounds, break the constraints of archetypical conformity taught in schools. Addressing an informed public, their posters flaut the criteria of perfect readability, opting instead for a rich abundance of imagery and underground graphic references.

“Their posters express a universe unto itself, reflecting urban nocturnal culture – its concerts, its more or less legal substances – with a rebellious aesthetic peculiar to the counterculture,” says Marc H. Choko.

Originally from Brussels, Elzo Durt studied there at the École de Recherche Graphique. His posters comprise borrowings, collages and (often incongruous) juxtapositions, in a multicoloured palette, infused with psychedelic and punk influences. Highly recognizable, they have been featured in numerous exhibitions in Europe and the United States. Durt also creates album and magazine covers and develops visuals for skateboard, snowboard and clothing brands.

Sébastien Lépine

Sébastien Lépine studied graphic design at UQAM (BA Graphic Design 2001). His style, mixing photographic elements, frames, traces of colour, transparencies and overlays, is marked by continual experimentation and a quest for depth. His experiments play with the superimposition of colours, the decomposition of the image and the multiplication of planes.

Marc Choko – Curator

Marc H. Choko is a professor emeritus at the UQAM School of Design, where he has taught since 1977. He is also an author, lecturer and curator. He is a lover of posters, which he has collected since the mid-1960s. Since the early 1980s, he has been organizing exhibitions, including several as curator, and publishing a number of books.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/underground-world-of-music-posters-at-uqam-design-center/feed/0Tribute to Sly and the Family Stone at Dollar Cinemahttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/tribute-to-sly-and-the-family-stone-at-dollar-cinema/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/tribute-to-sly-and-the-family-stone-at-dollar-cinema/#respondWed, 12 Sep 2018 14:30:22 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51641Dollar Cinema – After 14 years of great movies just completed-wow-time flies when you’re having fun and lots more to come. So thank you so much to our loyal customers because without you there is no Dollar Cinema. We are adding live music bands on our stage,starting Friday September 21 at 8 pm. We installed […]

]]>Dollar Cinema – After 14 years of great movies just completed-wow-time flies when you’re having fun and lots more to come. So thank you so much to our loyal customers because without you there is no Dollar Cinema.

We are adding live music bands on our stage,starting Friday September 21 at 8 pm. We installed a fantastic lighting system plus a blockbuster sound system. The Tribute bands coming include “Sly and the Family Stone”, Friday, September 21 8 pm – plus we are in discussions with “Chicago”, “Led Zeppelin”, “Heart”, “Tragically Hip”, “Beatles”, “Elvis”, and much more.

Also I will take your suggestions. The events will listed on our website – dollarcinema.ca and our Facebook and of course here in the Montreal Times.

We continue to have free parking indoor and out. Our popcorn and drinks and chocolates, etc. remain at $1. The bands events are $20 tax included and we will have a bar serving Alcoholic beverages at budget prices.

The net proceeds of these events go to the “Hope and Cope foundation” which has been our charity for more than 10 years and we are featured in their year book with pictures.

The movies we are currently showing Oceans 8 and Slenderman and Teen Titans Go To the Movies and Leave No Trace plus others. Next movies coming include Crazy Rich Asians and Mission Impossible plus Dollar Cinema’s mission has always been to offer great entertainment at affordable prices.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/tribute-to-sly-and-the-family-stone-at-dollar-cinema/feed/0We’re Falling In Love With Georgi Kay In Our Latest Interviewhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/were-falling-in-love-with-georgi-kay-in-our-latest-interview/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/were-falling-in-love-with-georgi-kay-in-our-latest-interview/#respondMon, 10 Sep 2018 02:42:31 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51250Last month we discovered the lead single Lone Wolf from singer-songwriter Georgi Kay. We were immediately struck with the 25 year old sound and her talent, but we we left wanting so much more song from this amazing artist. Luck was in our favour – Georgi is in production for her debut record – Where […]

]]>Last month we discovered the lead single Lone Wolf from singer-songwriter Georgi Kay. We were immediately struck with the 25 year old sound and her talent, but we we left wanting so much more song from this amazing artist. Luck was in our favour – Georgi is in production for her debut record – Where I go To Disappear

The independent artist based in LA is rising by the minute. Kay has built a hugely passionate fanbase, with over 70,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, and is regularly garnering tens of thousands of views on her videos. Her debut albumis set to release on november 2nd and she’ll already be touring in the regions. Playing at the Toronto Indie Week – November 6 to 11 th – She is definitely someone to put on your list !

We had the chance to catch the lonely wolf for a close and intimate interview getting a special glimpse into her life and her unique personality just before the big release – Listen To the Single Lone Wolf Now !

Georgi Kay described her single to us as – basically about being alone and isolated from distractions and having to really sink into your inner thoughts and feelings, having to face yourself in the mirror so to speak, and accept the vulnerabilities and insecurities you hold within yourself. Overall, it’s a loner’s anthem about turning negativities within the self into something positive.

With a love for creating and looping electronic beats, bass, synths and vocal chops – Georgi Kay is a British-Australian artist based in LA who has received multiple awards for her original work, songwriting, and collaborations over the years. She has won both an ARIA award, multiple APRA awards and received a Grammy nomination for her song “In My Mind” with Swedish House Mafia’s Axwell. Her voice has featured in numerous DJ sets worldwide by some of music’s biggest names and she has collaborated with international EDM/dance artists including Tiesto, Kaskade, Lipless, Matt Nash, Faruk Sabanci and many more.

Along with EDM collaborations, Georgi has also acted in and written for several films and TV series (Jane Campion’s Golden Globe & Emmy Award-winning ‘Top Of The Lake’, Alex Garcia’s ‘Residue’ & JD Dillard’s ‘SLEIGHT’ & upcoming feature film ‘SWEETHEART’), often offering her voice and original songs as main titles or featured throughout.

Since relocating to LA, Georgi’s songwriting skills and capabilities have been recognized by two of the biggest songwriting competitions in the world (International Songwriting Competition & the Vanda & Young Songwriting Competition) where she has made it as a finalist out of a staggering 14,000 entries and received an Honourable Mention for her work.

Gathering inspiration from old sci-fi and horror films, elements of deep house, 80’s inspired synths and a love for the weird and the macabre – audiences around the world have been seduced by Georgi’s hypnotic and energetic live shows, her brooding, husky vocal tones and her honest, symbolic and often ambiguous songwriting – always leaving them wanting more.

Hi Georgi ! Thank you so much for taking the time […] Where are you and how’s the Album release coming up – are you enjoying your day-to-day experience lately ?

Well, right now I’m actually sitting in my co-producer/mixer Steve Rusch’s studio. We’re working on my debut album ‘Where I Go To Disappear’. I just got back from Australia a couple days ago. I was over there performing at Splendour In The Grass (Australia’s equivalent of Coachella) with my DJ mates CARMADA.We have a song called ‘Lay It Down’. It was our first time playing it live and we performed to over 10,000 people – it was so surreal and crazy!

When I landed back in LA, I played two shows back to back – one at The Moroccan Lounge and another at The Echoplex – severely jetlagged playing both, but well worth it.

Now I’m feeling pretty much back to normal, and I’m sitting here eating an apple listening to Steve tweak some hats and kicks on one of the album songs. Been having a blast with everything lately – I haven’t been this busy in a while so it’s a nice change of pace and a super fun part of the album process to be in.

What makes you happy lately?

Things that make me happy the most are my family, friends, my girlfriend, her Chihuahua, mint tea, video games…sci-fi thrillers, horror films and writing new songs.

What particulary inspired you during the creation of the upcoming album?

‘Where I Go To Disappear’ is basically a body of work inspired by particular experiences I’ve had, either with others or alone with myself – and I think it will give listeners and fans a very in-depth analysis of who I am. It’s extremely self-reflective and personal, with strong themes of loneliness, self- awareness and self-understanding running throughout.

I feel that I reference a lot of my musical inspirations within the album as well. A few years ago I discovered Depeche Mode and whilst living in London, I came across the dark grooving world of deep house. So there are definite synth and bass sounds that I’ve used that pay homage to both genres of music, but are executed in my own style.

Another heavy inspiration for the album is my mad love for horror films and sci-fi thrillers. I’m obsessed with dark and ambient sounds in films like Blade Runner, The Fifth Element, American Horror Story, The Invitation, It Follows… I’m also extremely fascinated and inspired by the visuals in these films.
They’re so vibey and instantly put me in the mood to create a distant otherworldly dreamscape of my own.

There are 11 songs on the album, of which 3 have already been released into the world (SCARY PEOPLE, GUILTY PLEASURES, LONE WOLF) followed by the next single TOXINS releasing in September.

When I was a kid I used to write short stories and novellas.
And I’ve only just realized that each song on the album sounds like a chapter title of a book. I guess that was my subconscious working its magic.

It makes sense though, as each song is essentially a storytelling of a particular moment or experience with myself or with another that took place within my life.

Self-reflection is the biggest theme that plays throughout the album.
There are also a few songs that talk about experiences with others, but the majority of the album is very much personal and introspective.

What would you do with your time if you didn’t work in music?

Write sci-fi and horror novels probably. Or become a shark scientist. Or do voiceovers for cartoons. Or create sounds and FX audio for video games.

None really. I don’t like to listen to music outside of my own. Not from a selfish perspective but more from a point of view where I don’t want to taint my music with other peoples’ sounds or end up writing songs that sound like carbon copies of something that’s already been created.

I used to live with a friend of mine back in London, and he was a chef. He would cook all day for people and when he got home he would order pizza or a burger and chips. I asked him once why he never cooked for himself at home, because he was a really talented cook and made super tasty meals.

And he said to me, “I’ve been cooking all day. The last thing I want to do when I get off work is cook again.”

Which made total sense, because if you’re doing one thing all day the last thing you want to do when you get home to relax and unwind is that same exact thing.
You want a break from it, and you crave something different.

So that’s how I feel about music outside of my own.

How would you describe your musical process?

I’ll usually start by watching something either really creepy or really futuristic. Sci-fi and horror films are some of my favorite movies to watch, because their visuals are so beautifully haunting and powerful – it really inspires me to create a soundscape that mirrors that environment.

I’ll go through a bunch of synth sounds on my laptop until I find either a bass or lead sound that sets a mood or a tone. Then I’ll add a beat and maybe one other synth element, like an ambient drone or some pitched down vocal chop doused in reverb.

If I can’t close my eyes and imagine the landscape I saw in the film then I know I haven’t created something good enough. Usually that never happens, but when it does – I scrap that idea and start again.

Thoughts on musical genres and label? Do you consider yourself in a specific category?

I don’t think any artist likes being pigeonholed into a specific sound or category. We’re all multi-faceted human beings, and as artists we don’t paint our soundscape with just one color.

When you’re a part of such a competitive industry though, people want to know how to sell you as the next big product. It makes it easier for people with a lack of imagination to better understand the information you’re giving them.

So I guess if I were to sell myself you’d most likely find me down the dark, indie aisle in the electronic-pop section.

Any other artistic sides you particularly enjoy or would like to develop more?

Yes. I like taking black and white photos of my surroundings, like flowers and industrial structures. I’m no photographer though; I just do it for fun.

Drawing has always been something I’ve enjoyed, and I’m relatively good at it. When I was a kid I used to sketch entire comic books filled with my own characters. I remember getting lost for hours drawing those.

I’ve acted once – in Jane Campion’s multiple Emmy award-winning mini TV series ‘Top Of The Lake’. It was a really fun experience, and sort of fell into my lap randomly. I’d love to act more – maybe in the future – but only if it’s for (yep, you guessed it) sci-fi or horror film.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/were-falling-in-love-with-georgi-kay-in-our-latest-interview/feed/0CCMA 2018 – Our 15 min Talk With Montreal’s Nominee Danick Dupellehttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/interview-with-danick-dupelle/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/interview-with-danick-dupelle/#respondSun, 09 Sep 2018 05:55:54 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50270Today is the Canadian Country Music Association Awards , airing live from Hamilton at 19:45. The CCMA Awards, as everybody likes to refer as, released the nominees a while back and we were extremely proud and thrilled to see our very own’s Danick Dupelle in nomination for Record Producer of the Year. We were even more excited […]

]]>Today is the Canadian Country Music Association Awards , airing live from Hamilton at 19:45. The CCMA Awards, as everybody likes to refer as, released the nominees a while back and we were extremely proud and thrilled to see our very own’s Danick Dupelle in nomination for Record Producer of the Year. We were even more excited when we learned he could share a bit of time out of his hard schedule to talk with us.

You see, Nashville-based Danick Dupelle is one of those producer that can tell you quite a bit about the music industry – Beyond being a successful workaholic in the studio, Dupelle is even more famous and recognized for his on-stage alter ego who’s the lead guitarist/producer and songwriter of the grammy nominated band – Emerson Drive

Emerson Drive has been a part of the country music scene since they signed their first record deal with DreamWorks Records Nashville in 2001. The band’s first two singles, “I Should Be Sleeping” and “Fall Into Me,” peaked in the Top 5 on the Billboard charts and quickly became fan favourites – but it was the career-changing song “Moments“ that gave the band their first #1 single in the USA. Since then Emerson Drive hasn’t stopped any activities and touring across the state with star such as Toby Keith and Shania Twain.

That being said, with Emerson Drive still producing new materials and touring generously , it goes without saying that we were more than lucky to get an interview with Danick Dupelle to discuss busy lifestyle and his recent nomination for Record Producer of the year with his works on Tebey’s latest album –Love a Girl.

Within the first few moment of our phone exchange, we already noticed his charismatic, passionate and hard-working personality. First, he was in Nashville, leaving the next day for a show in the state and he was still doing ”Everything in his power’‘ to manage a schedule that would let him attend the year CCMA ceremony this Sunday (Sept. 9th), as he was going to be in Arizona for another show.

D.Dupelle_”[Emerson Drive] plays pretty much every weekend in the summer with all the festivals and fairs. I’m leaving tomorrow night for a town called Charlevoix, Michigan. Going there playing a show, going back to Nashville for a week in the studio. Every time I’m in Nashville , I’m in the studio. Like 7 days a week working on projects.”

My band Emerson drive is just working on the next single right now. Starting a new project at the end of august. Also working on with Tebey on some demo’s. They just got a big hit and we are still thinking about the next record because … you got to get on it quick !

Are you Mainly touring in the US ?

No it’s mostly Canada. Back in the day, when we signed with Dreamworks record and Universal we were playing up to 2010, about 90% in the US and after that we started switching. We started concentrating only in Canada. Everything took a complete opposite turn, like a 360. We went to 95 % in canada… It’s all canadian based… Only one in September in Arizona and one in Michigant !

When did producing first came to mind and became so serious for you ?

Well, It’s not something I had in mind at the beginning. I was busy with the band playing bars and after that we got a record deal. So when I got to making our first record, it put me in a position to be in major facility. Like with superstar like Tom McGraw and Toby Keith and so many other … And I was like ‘Oh My God !’ – Its was almost a drug, I got addicted to it …And After that we got so busy. We didn’t get much chance to do studio’s. The only studio we did are the one we made a record with so.

When everything started slowing down just a little bit, around… 2007 …Well no, It was crazy busy, doesn’t matter! It was crazy until 2011-2012 and everytime I had time off and was in Nashville, my buddy had a studio in town with , Jonathan Cain from the band Journey… he was always ‘‘Man, you should come here you would learn so much !”... And I knew a lot of it already, but you know… so I got in, got my bedroom doing demo.

After that it went on to bigger and better things and now my band Emerson drive bought a building in Nashville … There’s about 30 studios in my street, in the neighbourhood and I got my own mint in producing and songwriting. It’s almost like it been gradually coming more and more and now… it’s almost like When I go out with the band – It’s almost affecting my work because I don’t have time to leave town.. But it’s all good, I love playing live and when I get back home I love being in the studio.. So best of both world

With 30 studios just in your neighborhood, Nashville must be an extremely competitive market. Hass it affected much of the dynamic you have with Emerson Drive or even relation with other artist ?

No, not at all ! I mean there’s so many studio right, so everybody think it’s very competitive, but everybody help each other. There’s no ego – Nobody is like ”Oh my God ! you’r going to use this guys instead of me”. No, everybody is busy, everybody is so busy … Everybody is so busy because there’s so much work. Lately, I don’t have time to write that much, but it’s not because I leave town that I’ll lose my client – They want to work with me ! They want me to cut the song, cut the audio. They want me to write the song, they want me to play the guitar … So that’s how you build your relationship. There no competition, it’s an amazing place. There’s no place like it I would say – Like Nashville, for music anyway… have you ever been ?

Ohh Yes, I know Madeline Merlot !! I know Madeline very well, she is very sweet, very talented … She’s awesome !

What about your recording label – Do you have many new promising clients artist right now ?

Yes there’s tons of brand new artists about to break … There’s obviously Tebey and Emerson Drive. There’s also a guy from Saskatchewan and many more new projects that are about to get release, but they are not as established as these two :

There’s this one girl I’ve been working for years and she is about to break. She’s an extremely talented singer. Her name is Liv Charette. She’s from Ottawa but she just got out of Belmont University down in Tennessee and we’ve been working together for four years and been coaching to really come out with a sound for her… So really looking forward for her career to start and we really got something special with her.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkoZ_kABaRU/

Another cool and big project is a guy from Montreal, his name is Matt Lang. He used to be Mathieu Langevin but it’s sometime hard to say in English [laugh]. He’s a french country artist but it’s English – We did everything in English. He’ got a song out now called ”Love me some you’‘ in Quebec and it’s pretty good …He’s got an EP done and a lot of good things happening … So check him out he’s one of our the tops singer, he’s like crazy crazy good.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/interview-with-danick-dupelle/feed/0Special Concert of ‘The Four Seasons of Vivaldi’http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/special-concert-of-the-four-seasons-of-vivaldi/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/special-concert-of-the-four-seasons-of-vivaldi/#respondWed, 05 Sep 2018 21:38:20 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51461The Four Seasons of Vivaldi and magnificent movie themes … …under candlelight! Performed by the “Ambitus” string quartet Enchanting, inspired, and beautiful, a concert with a unique ambiance: a softly glowing fairyland of candlelight, moving narratives, exceptional musicians, and awe-inspiring music! All for the listening enjoyment of the audience at this concert! Who has not […]

]]>The Four Seasons of Vivaldi and magnificent movie themes … …under candlelight! Performed by the “Ambitus” string quartet Enchanting, inspired, and beautiful, a concert with a unique ambiance: a softly glowing fairyland of candlelight, moving narratives, exceptional musicians, and awe-inspiring music! All for the listening enjoyment of the audience at this concert!

Who has not yet experienced the pleasure of hearing the Four Seasons of Vivaldi composed in the year 1725? Did you know that these are the most recorded compositions in the entire history of music? Not surprising, considering the richness of their melodies, at times joyful, at other times soothing, never ceasing to enchant lovers of fine music by their bewitching charm!

Among the composers of the Baroque age (1650 to 1750), Vivaldi is the best known of all ! His 450 concertos and the collection of his religious music make him the most popular and most prolific composer of his time!

But how can one explain the popularity of his Four Seasons? Certainly their great melodic beauty, but surely also because of the feeling of joy left in the heart of the listener! We never tire of hearing them! As soon as the melody starts, the magic begins!

The Four Seasons of Vivaldi will take place at: Lumière du monde Church, 11075, Gouin boul. E. Fri. September 14 – 8pm

You will have the chance to listen in a magical environment, just right for listening, and wonderfully lit by candles! The Tiffany string quartet will provide an interpretation that could only be described as enchanting, elegant, and filled with wonder! You will also hear: The overture “Guillaume Tell” by Rossini, an exceptional medley of movie themes (Love Story, The Godfather, Titanic, Unchained Melody, once upon a time in the west, …) and some of the best Tango ! In addition, for each of the works on the programme there will be a special presentation. Their genesis will be unfolded for you in the form of short stories … of the kind that begin with … “Once upon a time…”

Come and hear this masterpiece of Vivaldi and thrilling movie themes … under candlelight, and experience some truly great moments of joy in music!

Tickets ($30) on sale at Salon Andrée, 13075, Gouin E. and at the door the night of the concert. 514) 774-9148 or www.concertchandelle.com

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/special-concert-of-the-four-seasons-of-vivaldi/feed/0Here’s what You Missed at MUTEK 2018 – Best Photos and Highlightshttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/all-you-missed-at-the-mutek-festival/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/all-you-missed-at-the-mutek-festival/#respondWed, 05 Sep 2018 19:19:20 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51388The end of august wasn’t quiet for Montreal’s electronic fans and technologies admirer – The Mutek festival was reuniting some of the finest and most forward-thinking artists for it’s 19th celebration of electronic music and digital arts. For the 5 days event, the international festival presented 150 artists from a staggering 27 countries – featuring 120 […]

]]>The end of august wasn’t quiet for Montreal’s electronic fans and technologies admirer – The Mutek festival was reuniting some of the finest and most forward-thinking artists for it’s 19th celebration of electronic music and digital arts. For the 5 days event, the international festival presented 150 artists from a staggering 27 countries – featuring 120 performances : 20 Canadian, 18 North American and 16 world premieres: for a record breaking number of 52 never-before-seen.

Half of the performances were from Canadian and Québec-based artists and the program achieved a total Gender Parity for the first time in it’s existence. It was hard to top the 2017 edition, but as you can see Mutek clearly managed that and presented more than an impressive line-up and share of experiences.

It’s hard to describe and capture the Mutek spirit and energy in few word but here are some of the best pictures and moments

A/VISION Series

First, A/Vision is the signature series of the festival, for some it’s the jewel. It’s where the digital creativity shines and unleashes itself for incredible visual experiences. Only six artists had the privilege to present a live 30 minutes performance in front of the sit down audience at monument National – Honestly, they’re basically all highlight .

TUNDRA – A/VAmongst the most awaited segment, was the Russian collaborative and light art masters Tundra, who was presenting a world premiere performance called Nomad. A show that was created especially so they could present it at Mutek. Tundra usually works in 360-immersive installation using architecture of light’s and laser rather than live performance, so this made the A/V moment a unique must-see act.

They presented a performance that focused on pattern-base and interaction with extremely bright laser beam, of which the density seemed potent enough to cut metal. – Photos by : Trung Nguyen

Herman KOLGEN – A/V

Montreal artist Herman Kolgen was returning as a headliner to the festival who brought him in the spotlight almost 20 year ago – Of course, it wasn’t just Mutek that brought Kolgen to the international scene, the talent and creativity is exceptional. Kolgen was part of the first cohort of artist to collaborate on the Mutek project that has now spread across Mexico, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Barcelona, San Francisco and Dubai

Molecular Abstraction and Energy transfer was the theme of this new creation called Isotopp – Photo by Bruno Destombes

Martin Messier and YRO – A/V

Montreal’s Martin Messier also returned to Mutek, this time with France’s artist YRO for a distinctive performance named Ashes. The project was called as such because a fire destroyed the initial project and so begun this project out of the ashes. It consisted in visuals from high power microscopes that were on the stage and broadcasted live into the screen. Theses magnified images were sometime straight out of an space landscape and they were coordinated with strange sound, lights show and precise synchronized movements. – Photo by : Trung Nguyen

ROBIN FOX – A/V

Australian A/V experimentalist and intermedia artist, Robin Fox presented Single Origins, a laser madness. Fox’s latest A/V work, is the third in his series of laser/sound works exploring the possibilities of mechanically induced synaesthesia. Building on his previous meditations on the relationship between sound and light—Monochroma(2004) and RGB Laser Show (2013)—Fox composes this time around what is essentially a concerto for a laser beam.– Photo By Bruno Destombes

The A/Vision was only a small fraction of this year edition – The Nocturne and the Metropolis series both had more than a few electronic frenzyness over the Mutek week – Here are some of the most talked-about performances.

ALGOBABEZ

Algobabez literally give a totally new genres of performance. The concept is to make music by writing code live, on a open-source software (superCollider), all of which is projected into the screen behind them. The duo was writing code on the fly and every new alteration was generating and shifting the music accordingly. A more than impressive way to create and perform – Definitely one of the most avant-garde style represented.

ACID PAULI – SAT

The Satosphere was only opening it’s door for full-pass access sunday night and it was more than a treat. Acid Pauli’s set on Sunday was closing the festivals in spectacular fashion under the outstanding SAT’s dome. The German artist brought his soft downtempo techno and lyrical style under multitude of hypnotic perspectives and stunning visuals signed by artists: Diagraf, LLL and Felix Felix Gourd Gourd. On top of all that, he made a special Leonard Cohen tribute – It was the perfect ambiance for a Sunday mood – First photo by Bruno Destombes – Photos bellow by Trung Ngyuen

ALEKSI PERÄLÄ – Mtelus

The classic friday techno’s night at the Mtelus was dominated by the Finland artist Aleski Parälä. Based in Uk, Aleski brough his well control beat that are infused with jungle and chicago fuse to create an elegant amalgam. Aleski Parala sets was also supported with gorgeous projections from Québec Artist – Push 1 Stop – Photo By Trung Nguyen

YU SU

Chinese-born, Vancouver-based producer and musician Yu Su presented a organically groovy jazz-bient expeditions between coasts; a dub-inflected balance of luminous and wistful textures. Yu Su studied classical piano for years, devoting countless hours to learning the complexities of Bach, and later the ambiance of Debussy and Liszt. It’s only upon relocating to Canada five years ago that she got acquainted with disco and funk – Photo By Trung Nguyen

EQUIKNOXX

After becoming the First-ever Jamaican representatives at Mutek Mexico, these dancehall scientist brought their futuristic weird take on dub infused rhythms to the opening night of the festivals for a solid Canadian Premieres – Photo By Bruno Destombes

HONEY DIJON

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnCd30tHG2c/

MachineWoman

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnCw_t3HH4m/

The Hors-Circuit Stage

This year for the first time Mutek stopped by the Mile-end neighbourhood and gave another delightful free outdoor scene. Already having quite a stunning set-up for their free stage at the Place-Des-Arts – It was a sweet surprise to enjoy the Red bull Hors-circuit stage even if rain was also part of the days

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/all-you-missed-at-the-mutek-festival/feed/0Snoop Dogg Montreal Namaste Pledge Party at New City Gashttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/montreal-nightlife/snoop-dogg-montreal-namaste-pledge-party-at-new-city-gas/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/montreal-nightlife/snoop-dogg-montreal-namaste-pledge-party-at-new-city-gas/#respondWed, 29 Aug 2018 15:52:05 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51184Snoop Dogg Montreal Namaste Pledge Party – DJ Snoopadelic, an international superstar, entertainment icon and cannabis entrepreneur will join Namaste Technologies at The Namaste Pledge Party, an exclusive, invite only event, on September 12 at New City Gas, Montreal. The music mogul and cannabis enthusiast will DJ (AKA DJ Snoopadelic) and rock the house for […]

]]>Snoop Dogg Montreal Namaste Pledge Party – DJ Snoopadelic, an international superstar, entertainment icon and cannabis entrepreneur will join Namaste Technologies at The Namaste Pledge Party, an exclusive, invite only event, on September 12 at New City Gas, Montreal. The music mogul and cannabis enthusiast will DJ (AKA DJ Snoopadelic) and rock the house for the company’s shareholders.

The event will reinforce the strength of Namaste’s culture, having over 150 million public company shares pledged by investors, large and small, across the globe. Co-Founder of Namaste, Kory Zelickson, says ‘The pledge is special because it’s the first time a public company in the cannabis sector has stood up to unethical shorting and stock manipulation. We value every shareholder and take personal care to communicate and support shareholders daily.’

‘Snoop is the perfect fit to be aligned to this party. He is one of the most prominent people in the cannabis community, and his POUNDS glassware is also one of the top selling brands in our marketplace,” says CEO and Founder of Namaste Technologies, Sean Dollinger.

Snoop Dogg is the Co-Founder of MERRY JANE, the leading global cannabis news and lifestyle media platform. Activism is central to the building blocks of both Namaste Technologies and MERRY JANE, with each company taking a proactive role working with the public to provide better information and products for cannabis culture.

The evening will bring together investors, industry friends and surprise performers. Special musical guests from Toronto, APB, are also confirmed to be joining the celebration.

Namaste has expanded globally in just two years.

In 2016 Namaste Technologies struggled to raise $1m investment, however by 2018 had attracted investors from around the globe, raising over $50 million.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/montreal-nightlife/snoop-dogg-montreal-namaste-pledge-party-at-new-city-gas/feed/0Boy George brings the 80’s back for his first Montreal show in 34 yearshttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/boy-george-first-montreal-show-in-34-years/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/boy-george-first-montreal-show-in-34-years/#respondWed, 29 Aug 2018 00:28:04 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=51044Boy George – It was the most anticipated concert of the West Island Saturday night as the city hosted the annual ‘’Strangers in the Night‘’ Charity event for a 14th edition – A foundation that over the course of their existence has helped raise an impressive 6 million dollars for the Miriam Foundation, the West Island […]

]]>Boy George – It was the most anticipated concert of the West Island Saturday night as the city hosted the annual ‘’Strangers in the Night‘’ Charity event for a 14th edition – A foundation that over the course of their existence has helped raise an impressive 6 million dollars for the Miriam Foundation, the West Island Women’s Shelter and Lymphoma Canada.

The event once again presented some of the finest food and deserts our local artisans have to offer – It is however Boy George who stole the show playing his first show in Montreal in over 34 years, gathering more than 5000 people who were ready to groove back to the 80’s.

For his first appearance in decades, Boy George gave us a great taste of his sense of humour and showmanship. Accompanied by his band Culture Club, the famous singer jumped on stage at 8:42 to begin the night with a cover of David Bowie’s Let’s Dance.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm7C7fDD4dw

Dressed in his black coat layered with gold finitude – The official clothing of the upcoming Album out October 26th – he showed us his well controlled voice singing the entire Bowie track , setting the mood for the night with the classic lyrics : “Put on your red shoes and Dance’’ .

He than engaged with the crowd : ‘’Can we start the night with just a bit of advice – Don’t Be Shy .. Really ! ….Shining Is Good!…’’ ‘’We are Culture Club – A living breathing soap opera – the collective drama on this stage would kill a beginner – and we deal in Love and it’s many complications and of course, the occasional Miracle. ‘’- with the queue word leading to the hit song ‘’It’s a miracle ‘’.

Boy George had hilarious interactions with the crowd at multiples occasions and didn’t fail to provide his most known and famous hits. He brought many back into their teenage years with his magnificent hit ‘’Do you really want to hurt me’’.

Amongst other highlights : the song Times, with the appearance of an overwhelming number of oversized balloons that made the stage at times barely visible to the crowd, Boy George himself was struck by the moment cleverly quoting one of Leonard Cohen’s most famous lyrics – ‘’There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in! ‘’ adding that it might have been one of the most unreal performances of that song.

Culture club also played the reggae track “Everything I own’’ from the band Bread, but even more interesting they presented tracks from their upcoming unreleased album.

They left the stage after 11 songs but the crowd wasn’t going to let them leave without a little Chameleon nostalgia. The band came back for a 4 song encore at 21:45 that included a few little surprises such as a very well received cover of Robert Palmer’s Addicted to Love, but ultimately sending the fans home singing and happy with the classic hit ‘Karma Chamelon’.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/boy-george-first-montreal-show-in-34-years/feed/0What To Expect from this Week MUTEK Festivalhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/what-to-expect-from-this-week-mutek-festival/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/what-to-expect-from-this-week-mutek-festival/#respondMon, 20 Aug 2018 17:42:29 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50857This upcoming Wednesday, one of Montreal finest Music & Arts festival will spread all across the city for another out-of-this-world celebration of digital creativity and electronic music. On August 22, MUTEK is coming back for a 19th edition that’s offering a impressive line-up – Featuring performances from Machine Woman, Lawrence English, Pye Corner Audio, Caterina Barbieri, […]

]]>This upcoming Wednesday, one of Montreal finest Music & Arts festival will spread all across the city for another out-of-this-world celebration of digital creativity and electronic music. On August 22, MUTEK is coming back for a 19th edition that’s offering a impressive line-up – Featuring performances from Machine Woman, Lawrence English, Pye Corner Audio, Caterina Barbieri, Floorplan, Lanark Artefax, JASSS and about a hundred more

Here’s the entire Line-up

For those who don’t know the Infamous festival, MUTEK is an international 5 day annual event that take over the city best scenes and locations for some of the most mind-blowing audiovisual experiences you could imagine !

After humble beginnings, it now attracts more than 50,000 people that crowds into venues around downtown every year to experience the beats and creations of renowned artists, trendsetters, and emerging superstars.

Reuniting more than 150 artists working at the vanguard of music and art that intersects with technology. MUTEK is a part of an international community that has held events around the world with the purpose of creating a hub for digital music lovers. During the day, people can join in workshops, showrooms, and discussions to exchange ideas before indulging in the night’s electronic mixes and visuals.

You see, while most music festival call themselves Music & Art festival – Mutek’s Art is quite predominant and his held in high esteem – It’s a Arts and Music Festivals – Actually it’s an Arts, music and technologies festivals.

From unique new instruments, to the finest audiovisual accompanied by the smartest and most impressive display of projections, light and laser. Mutek is a breathtaking adventures of sensorial experiences that won’t leave you disappointed.

This year’s edition hasn’t yet started officially but it’s already proving to be one for the book. Presenting more than 120 performances coming from 27 countries from around the globe – As usual, half of the performances coming from a pool of talented Canadian and Québec-based artists, underlining the festival’s strong commitment to positioning the local in an international context –

As the founder explained, the original intent was to put local creator in dialogue with world’s respected Artist, or too quote ” Put Montreal on the Map ” –

that being said, this edition adds another focus. “This year, MUTEK is proud to raise the profile of women in digital arts and electronic music by hosting a lineup of outstanding Canadian female performers—rising stars on both the Montréal and international scenes.” — Jennifer-Ann Weir, General Director of MUTEK

Presenting a two day symposium called Keychange Dedicated to empowering women in digital arts and electronic music in order to enlighten, embolden and contribute to the current cultural shift around inclusivity and gender issues.

Moreover, this year performance program is achieving a total gender parity for the first time – something we can’t acclaim enough ! This year’s highlights aren’t stopping here as this edition counts as the largest and richest in MUTEK history. 20 Canadian, 18 North American and 16 world premieres: for a record breaking number of 52 never-before-seen performances.

With so many exciting performances and multiples way to experiences the festivals here are few events to keep an eye out for !

2- This year however will include, for the very first time, a major outdoor event in the Mile-Ex district. The Hors Circuit Presented by Red Bull Music on Sunday – August 26 . The site will be outfitted with a bar and food, along with a pop-up record fair.

3 – Free Play Programs at Studio Hydro-Québec of the Monument-National

Running parallel to the Nocturnes at the SAT from Wednesday through Saturday, in the immaculate black box setting of the Studio Hydro-Québec, the Play series highlights avant-gardist and emergent creations, spanning audiovisual ingenuity, live coding, noise, drone, cheeky situationist presentations, quirky pop and unexpected rhythmic excursions. This series is FREE.

4- The free 2-daysymposium Keychange – running on aug 21-22 –

5- If that’s not enough – Métropolis Series 1 & 2 – will be, for first time in many years, activating the M2 (the old Savoy Room), the second stage at MTELUS

The Métropolis series is taking place in the newly re-christened MTELUS theatre Friday and Saturday, maintains its focus on big room sonics, current trends in techno and house music, and big names.

Photo – Sonja Moonear @ Ashutosh Gupta

As always, alongside the music there is an exciting variety of audiovisual events

The Society For Art and Technology (SAT) hosts this edition’s Nocturne series from Wednesday to Sunday. Designed to showcase a panorama of styles and singular works, each night pulls a particular thread through each program.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/what-to-expect-from-this-week-mutek-festival/feed/0Aretha Franklin dies at 76http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/aretha-franklin-dies-at-76/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/aretha-franklin-dies-at-76/#respondThu, 16 Aug 2018 14:29:05 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50798Aretha Franklin dies at 76 – Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, has passed away at the age of 76. Aretha Franklin The legendary singer was diagnosed with cancer in 2010 and told the world last year she would be retiring from music. Known for hits like Respect and Think, she had more than 20 US […]

]]>Aretha Franklin dies at 76 – Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, has passed away at the age of 76. Aretha Franklin The legendary singer was diagnosed with cancer in 2010 and told the world last year she would be retiring from music.

Known for hits like Respect and Think, she had more than 20 US number ones over a career spanning seven decades.

She gave her final performance last November at a gala in New York held in aid of the Elton John Aids Foundation.

Aretha Louise Franklin was an American singer and songwriter. Franklin began her career as a child singing gospel at New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, where her father, C. L. Franklin, was minister.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/aretha-franklin-dies-at-76/feed/0Ile Soniq 2018 Mtl – Music + Heat = Summer Party (photos)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ile-soniq-2018-mtl-music-heat-summer-party-photos/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ile-soniq-2018-mtl-music-heat-summer-party-photos/#respondWed, 15 Aug 2018 12:47:02 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50719Ile Soniq 2018 Mtl – Following up last week’s extravagant Osheaga festival, is Evenko’s final big music festival of the summer – Ile Soniq 2018. As the name implies, Soniq is an adventure into the sonic sound waves of electronic music and its three stages and vibrant, inflatable mushroom clad settings all vibe with happy […]

]]>Ile Soniq 2018 Mtl – Following up last week’s extravagant Osheaga festival, is Evenko’s final big music festival of the summer – Ile Soniq 2018. As the name implies, Soniq is an adventure into the sonic sound waves of electronic music and its three stages and vibrant, inflatable mushroom clad settings all vibe with happy and energetic people. Perhaps the youngest gathering of the four major festivals held in consecutive weekends on Montreal’s man-made island getaway, Parc Jean Drapeau was the place to be once again much to the continued dismay of the culture hating residents of Saint Lambert.

Ile Soniq 2018 Crowd – By Kieron Yates – Montreal Times

From the floating dance floor that surrounded the high rising Neon stage that glowed from LED screens during the day and became an impressive laser show by night, hosting much of the two day events Dubstep sounds, the Mirage stage and the Oasis stage that hosted the hottest names in modern music, to a crowd that stretched further than the naked eye could see – Ile Soniq was a rampant success.

Ile Soniq 2018 The Chainsmokers – By Kieron Yates – Montreal Times

Despite the last minute cancellation of the most influential DJ of all time, Paul Oakenfold, due to illness, the party vibes were never ending. Artists such as French Montana and The Chainsmokers, DJ Snake, Diplo and Lil’ Yachty to Ferry Corsten and Rusko made sure of that.

Ile Soniq 2018 French Montana – By Kieron Yates – Montreal Times

My feet ached and blistered after two days of walking the site and I would hate to see the state of those feet that danced in the dirt from the early afternoon late into the night. The ambience and atmosphere were a thing of beauty, the decor and light shows incredible – albeit somewhat repetitive. When dealing with DJ’s, there isn’t a huge change over like you would find at a rock n’ roll show, and the stage setting never changes as a result. Most noticeable on the Neon stage but even the pyrotechnics that went off on the main stage became stale after being used in the exact same manner set after set for two straight days.

Ile Soniq was a fun time and its audience seemed to glow throughout its duration.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ile-soniq-2018-mtl-music-heat-summer-party-photos/feed/0OSM Free concert outside the Olympic Stadiumhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/osm-free-concert-outside-the-olympic-stadium/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/osm-free-concert-outside-the-olympic-stadium/#respondTue, 14 Aug 2018 17:13:04 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50710OSM Free concert – Let yourself be whisked away to the world of The Thousand and One Nights with Rimsky-Korsakov’s famous symphonic suite Scheherazade – a classic to kick off the OSM Classical Spree! Maestro Kent Nagano invites you to join the OSM on a voyage from the Olympic Park’s Esplanade to the heart of […]

]]>OSM Free concert – Let yourself be whisked away to the world of The Thousand and One Nights with Rimsky-Korsakov’s famous symphonic suite Scheherazade – a classic to kick off the OSM Classical Spree!

Maestro Kent Nagano invites you to join the OSM on a voyage from the Olympic Park’s Esplanade to the heart of legends from faraway lands. Dive headfirst into the stories that have captured imaginations for centuries.

The orchestra will be joined by Cirque Éloize in order to guarantee an evening of unforgettable entertainment!

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/osm-free-concert-outside-the-olympic-stadium/feed/0Osheaga 2018 – Top 50 Best Moments and Pictures [ Video ]http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/osheaga-2018-top-50-best-moments-picture-and-video/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/osheaga-2018-top-50-best-moments-picture-and-video/#respondSat, 11 Aug 2018 01:44:03 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50516Osheaga ended up another epic (and crowded) edition last Sunday night – leaving 135 000 music fans in exhaustion and the hard post-osheaga’s depression. For it’s 13th edition, the festival scored an impressive crowd that certainly felt sold out for all 3 days – as it has been a few years in a row now for […]

]]>Osheaga ended up another epic (and crowded) edition last Sunday night – leaving 135 000 music fans in exhaustion and the hard post-osheaga’s depression. For it’s 13th edition, the festival scored an impressive crowd that certainly felt sold out for all 3 days – as it has been a few years in a row now for the young fresh festival that dragged once again around 70 percents of his attendees from outside the province.

This year, it’s Ontario which seems to have dominated the ground with 50% of the ticket’s sale. No Surprise about an invasion from our neighbours, the festival has been blessed with legendary performance and Osheaga’s reputation has now grown to be one of the most successful music festival in the world.

That being said, it is with great sadness that we start this piece with the extremely painful Collins Obiagboso‘s story. The 18 year old Ottawa man was missing from Osheaga during the weekend and the search tragically ended when his body was pulled out of the St.Lawrence River Monday. Longueuil police discovered the body but it remained unidentified until Tuesday evening.

“We agreed not to bring our phones or anything, so we don’t lose anything, people don’t try to steal our things,” said Collins’ friend, Wahib Ali . “I was pretty close to the [Nav] mosh pit… and after that, people were pushing him, it was too hectic. I didn’t have my phone, he didn’t have his phone, it was the last I saw of him. He didn’t have any money to get home.”

“The last thing he said is, ‘It’s too crazy.’ He nodded his head, backed out and I haven’t seen him since then.”

Phil Vanden Brande, a spokesperson for concert promoter Evenko, told CTV News the company offers its deepest condolences . He said that in the 13-year history of the festival, there had never previously been a death related to the festival

Speechless, we are also extending our condolences to Obiagboso’s family – We hope to never have to share such a horrible story again – Please, we strongly recommend bringing your phone at osheaga – It is overall a very safe environment but you will absolutely lose a friend at some point. At any music festival you should at least set a meeting point at any obvious landmark on the site in case you get separated.

Evidently, the festival’s security is as shocked as we are. Access to the river is not that common on the festivals ground – but after all we are on a small island and water is surrounding us in abundance . Security is regularly reviewed to adjust to a number of new circumstances- – It is unlikely this incident will be ignored.

Futhermore, Osheaga is returning to his original site for the next year editions and construction’s are supposedly raising the site capacity to a scary 65 000 peoples each days – 25 000 more. Hopefully Evenko team’s will handle the extra traffic with care and safety measures accordingly. That’s a story to follow – Moving on –

Relive this year Osheaga with our Best Pictures and highlight you might have missed !

Osheaga’s luck might not seem so obvious either on the first night for fans who were anxiously waiting for Friday’s headliner. The American rapper was more than delayed at the custom and arrived basically when the show was suppose to be over – being scheduled at 21h45, it’s no wonder many of the fans had already left the festival ground by the time he made it – Some are asking for refund on twitter and one seriously disappointed fans even took Legal Actions. Nonetheless Travis, the famous boyfriend of Kylie Jenner, jumped on stage at 23:05 entering the Osheaga book in fire with a strong 45 mins performance (thankfully) ! Not to forget all the momentum behind the artist who just released his new albums 3 days before.

We shouldn’t be so surprised to see Sunday’s headliner Florence & the Machine enjoying the show that much ! Alex Turner, the lead singer of Arctic Monkeys was a beast on stage singing and playing all instruments like a true rock star ! Like Florence we really, really enjoyed watching the band who was headlining for the first year. The band wasn’t at their first Osheaga experience but they never came armed with their old punk self and their amazing new suave rock from Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino – See all the videos of her dancing at the show on her instagram

A post shared by FOR THE RECORD (@fortherecordblog) on Aug 8, 2018 at 8:52am PDT

#3 – 16 Year Old Billie Eilish perform dynamite show with foot injury

Billie Eilish is amongst absolute favourite performance of the year ! The brilliant 16 year old talent’s doesn’t stop to shock, but she gained tremendous respect rocking and jumping on the stage with a foot injuries that happened at a concert 2 days before. It did not stop the singer a single second and she was genuinely enjoying herself. ’ It’s my first show here, in Canada actually.. ‘’ Added Billie early on the show. Her smile and energy were striking and she infected the crowd with her insane dancing fuses – She even played her new song ”You Should See Me In A Crown” that was release not long ago ! – All uncredited photo by Xavier Hebert

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmE7kT-ABxU/

#4 – The National Invite Montreal’s Little Scream for ”I Need A Girl”

“Hello. It’s good to be back here. How’s it going?” first stated lead singer Matt Berninger to his deeply enthusiastic fans . Fans of the National were already pretty exstatic when the band was annouced on the lineup last march, especially because their last performance at the festival is still amongst the most critically acclaimed one …

Famously known for their unique and powerful live act the atmosphere at the National Show sunday was beyond transcendent and good. The mood was already set within the first song but when frontman Matt Berninger and his band mate invited Montreal’s Little Scream onstage to sing one of their most popular song – I Need A Girl – everything moved to a other level ! We also wish we had a video …

When Debbie Harry and her band took the stage at 17:45 after repetitive Blondie!Blondie! chant from the crowd. We almost instantly forgot they were from another decade or four. The Heart of glass Disco-punk group started the show singing One Way Or Another with half of osheaga. Wearing her ”Stop Fucking The Planet” cape she was definitely being a hero and an inspiration on the stage – Photo By P.Beaudry

Allan Rayman’s voice live is even better than his Studio Version

Allan Rayman has been called the most mysterious man in music but there’s no secret about his talent. When he takes the stage, the singer goes straight into his music – He didn’t waste a second and blew everyone’s mind at osheaga. He’s one of those passionate performers that just really gets into the music. His closing song, 13 could not have been more electrifyingly on point – see video below

”I really try to keep my cool – but I’m losing it….” he said to the crowd with his shirt open.. ”I might be losing my mind… but I really like going crazy … ”

Finn Wolfhard’s indie rock band Calipurnia became a real buzz online last year especially with fans of the Famous Netflix Actor from Stranger Thing. Wolfhard, Tesler-Mabe, Jack Anderson and Malcolm Craig became a sensation and are now playing festival all around North America. The band also dropped a crowd please cover of the Beatles’ ‘Don’t Let Me Down’

Wolfard “I just wanna say, I know it’s a big festival and I’m glad you guys are coming to see us,” ”Has anyone heard of the beatles ?”

Our very own Matt Holubowski on scene de la Montagne at 14:10 – Presenting his incredible Album Solitudes alongside his Elvis’ looking guitarist and superb team of violonist – Matt also gave us a taste of his new upcoming album with never-heard before song !

Later that day, Holubowski received a Gold record Certification plaque from Audiogram marking his 40 000 album sold – We were extremely lucky to get a one-on one interview on site with Matt Holubowski to discuss the festivals and his upcoming projects.

Lykke Li Mesmerizing Dress and Set

Lykke Li also brought a wind of fresh energy at 20:10 to help us forget the Hot humid air. The Swedish indie-pop singer who performed at osheaga in 2009 and 2014 returned to Montreal with a solid danceable set filled with all the fan favorite song. Early on the show Li suited with her heavy black vinyl suit was definitely creating a mood declaring : ‘’this is the perfect time to Smoke Weed, I wish I had some ‘’.

Odesza Opening – Photos By P. Beaudry

Jame Blakes cover for Travis Scott !

Most of the fans who left the main stage after Travis Scott’s delay ended up at James Blakes, the Londonian Mastermind who influenced artist such as Kanye, Béyonce, Drake and Frank Ocean. The 6′-6” gentle giant had already started his set at 21:45 to a massive crowd and people keep joining and joining ! He gave a set that mesmerized the crowd with his space upbeat sound and soft voice! It was a great ambiance for both fans who were exhausted and those who were still hyperactive.

Post Malone’s Enourmous Crowd – Sunday Aug 5th

The Post Malone crowd is the kind of the nightmarish place for any agoraphobia and claustrophobic people to be. It was certainly one of the biggest crowd of the days and you didn’t really want to have to move through it. The NY rapper gave more a show that almost felt like a headliner for some.

A post shared by Montreal Times (@montreal_times) on Aug 5, 2018 at 4:51pm PDT

Photo below by P.Beaudry

Tash Sultana by herself, sound like 10 musicians !

Montreal’s Milk And Bone Perform Two Sets

Camille Poliquin and Laurence Lafond-Beaulne fans were able to catch them two times this year. The Montrealer performed both a DJ set and a Live music show. Milk & Bone performed their DJ set Friday at the air-conditioned Perrier room and moved on to present their Stunning album Deception Bay in the full hot sun on Saturday ! – Photos By Pierre Bourgault

Dua Lipa Dance Party with all the Finger up !

The sun was hot but the dancefloor was even hotter when the 22-year-old performed for her first Osheaga. Dua Lipa is a pop star, but she’s not the usual one. She does not really care what you think ! She is here to make us dance and she does so, incredibly well. Her DGAF attitude was evident with her clothing and her Warning ” This is a song for all Fuckboys who have done you wrong..”Please Put your middle fingers up”

“Are you guys having a good time so far?” she asked. “I know it’s the end of the festival, and it’s a lot — we’re going to heal you, okay? You’re going to leave this festival and nobody’s gonna have a hangover. No one’s going to have any regrets.”

And I doubt anyone did after seeing Florence dance like a angel barefoot all over the stage. Florence Walsh wasn’t at her first osheaga performance either, but she is always a phenomenal act to see live.

The incredible singer asked for no phone early on the show which made everyone thankfully more in the moment – Best highlight of the show without a doubt when she asked everybody to get on the shoulder of someone they loved – So did thousand of fans .

St. Vincent’s Outfit

Amongst most avant-gardist band that was presented at osheaga this year, St.vincent hold a pretty high spot on that list ! Dressed as such, they brought their futuristic outfit and music to the Osheagians, who were more than pleased to dance with the electro funk’s infused vibe – Photo By P.Beaudry

The montreals boys came back with their retro disco-funk for another great set. They never disappointed at their to-many-to-count previous osheaga show – Once again Chromeo surprised us with a exciting and smooth show that grooved with crowd for a long time. – Photo by P.Beaudry

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/osheaga-2018-top-50-best-moments-picture-and-video/feed/0Smashing Pumpkins Cover Bowie, Fleetwood Mac And Led Zep At The Bell Centre (Video)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/smashing-pumpkins-at-the-bell-centre/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/smashing-pumpkins-at-the-bell-centre/#respondWed, 08 Aug 2018 20:40:49 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50462Smashing Pumpkins finally brought their ”Shiny and Oh So Bright’‘ reunion tour to Montreal last night for a impressive 3 1/2 hours set that transported everybody back to the early 90’s grungy era. The Alternative rock giants reunited for their 30th anniversary in Jersey last friday presenting all sorts of special appearances, but it was Montreal’s […]

]]>Smashing Pumpkins finally brought their ”Shiny and Oh So Bright’‘ reunion tour to Montreal last night for a impressive 3 1/2 hours set that transported everybody back to the early 90’s grungy era.

The Alternative rock giants reunited for their 30th anniversary in Jersey last friday presenting all sorts of special appearances, but it was Montreal’s turn to celebrate with the rock veteran.Throughout the Smashing Pumpkins’s 13-year existence up until 2000, the band cancelled only four shows and they did not cut any single corner at the Bell Center last night – Presenting a stunning 31 tracks set-list that included deep cut and covers from legendary artists !

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Other than ex-bassist D’arcy Wretzky, who is not taking part in the comeback tour, most of the original members still alive joined frontman Billy Corgan for the anniversary tour ! The group suffered a messy break up back in 1999, but drummer Jimmy Chaberlin, guitarist Jame Iha (Perfect Circle) and lead frontman Billy Corgan were back together for a spectacular and explosive night of rock.

The red curtains opened at 20:17 to a black sceen that projected the band’s most famous album cover alongside roars from the crowd that wore all the Nirvana and Pearl Jam’s shirts they had. After two minute pitch black, a white light cut the screen in two – The legendary frontman walks out trough thunder of applause and cheers

Wearing his signature skirt, he grabbed his acoustic guitar and began the show with a powerful solo version of Disarm – A piece from their second album Siamese Dream. At this points already most of us are in nostalgia singing ‘’The Killer in me is the Killer in you’’ chorus with the singer. Not to mention that the screens are constantly projecting sweet visual and videoclip from when the band was younger.

The moment was unbelievable, but it didn’t take the very long for the band to make it even better.

The band blasted and destroyed the sound system with their hard rock hits all night. All albums were touched from the iconic Mellon Collie and the infinite Sadness album, toAdore, Machina and even the rarer Gish Album. Smashing Pumpkins still have that electrifying grunge energy that gets the crowd going and Billy hasn’t lost his unique and mysterious talent that made them popular in 1993.

But it really rose to another level when they presented their first cover of the night ! After the track Rhinoceros, they did an outstanding 4 min cover of David Bowie – Space Odditty. The crowd couldn’t belive and instantly began to sing ”Ground Control To Major Tom” ! It was a beautiful homage to the late genius and they even added their unique rock twist at the ends – see the video below

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmN-6drHran/?taken-by=mouvement_creatif

Smashing Pumpkins wasn’t done doing covers tough ! Halfway trough the concert, Corgan began an insane cover of a Fleetwood Mac Classic –Landslide. It was an out of this world rendition of the Stevie Nick’s lyrics that seemed deeper than ever coming out of the lead Singer

The cover of Stairway to Heaven was even more unsuspected! When billy sat on the piano and began the Led Zeppelin epic 8 min track, four priests walked around the ground floor with a huge virgin Mary statue. They played the Jimmy Page and Robert Plant most popular track, creating a slow progressive build up to the famous guitar solo and got everyone mesmerized

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/smashing-pumpkins-at-the-bell-centre/feed/0Under Pressure festival 2018 starts tomorrow (full schedule)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/under-pressure-festival-2018-starts-tomorrow-full-schedule/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/under-pressure-festival-2018-starts-tomorrow-full-schedule/#respondTue, 07 Aug 2018 20:20:32 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50455Under Pressure festival 2018 – A pioneer of urban culture in Montreal, Under Pressure festival 2018 celebrates the 23rd edition of its festival from Wednesday, August 8 to Sunday, August 12, 2018. For the occasion, Saint-Catherine Street East will be animated to the rhythm hip-hop and will host a variety of activities for young and […]

]]>Under Pressure festival 2018 – A pioneer of urban culture in Montreal, Under Pressure festival 2018 celebrates the 23rd edition of its festival from Wednesday, August 8 to Sunday, August 12, 2018. For the occasion, Saint-Catherine Street East will be animated to the rhythm hip-hop and will host a variety of activities for young and old, including street art, urban dance, music, basketball and skateboarding.

UNDER PRESSURE 2018

Under Pressure festival 2018 begin Wednesday, August 8th and continue until Sunday, August 12th, 2018. St. Catherine Street East will be closed during the weekend, between Saint- Dominique Street and Saint- Elisabeth, where hundreds of local artists , national and international will take part in the event. On the program, frescoes on a dozen different walls, musical performances on three stages, urban dance competitions, exhibitions, conferences, basketball tournaments, children’s activities and more.

It is the BORO street-wear brand which signs the 2018 visual identity of the festival with a design highlighting the official entry of basketball in the programming of the event. The 23rd edition of the festival also presents the work of various Montreal actors and collaborates with various cultural and collective arts organizations in the city.

Thus, the festivities begin Wednesday, August 8th, Foufounes Electric with the 54th edition of its famous art competition Beaux Dégâts. The XXL Under Pressure 2018 edition brings together, for more than two hours, 10 teams of artists who improvise murals of 8 ” X 8 ” on a theme distributed the same evening. Each team researches and appropriates visual references to conceptualize their production in front of the public. All mediums are allowed except aerosol. During the evening, the public votes for its favourite mural with their Pabst beer cans. The team with the most cans wins the right to go over the works of others if they wish. On the music side, it will be the Pull-Up Selecta collective, specialists in all the influences of reggae who will take control of the evening, not to mention the resident deejays Stramiboi and Brom. The X-WAM artist will do a beatbox performance. Everything will be animated by Osti One. A must for any art and music lover.

MAIN SHUTTERS

GRAFFITI AND STREET ART: EXTERIOR WALLS AND EXHIBITIONS

Production of ten murals with graffiti influences

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 August

Saint- Catherine East, between Saint- Dominique and Saint– Elisabeth.

Since its inception in 1996, Under Pressure has become an important gathering for members of the local and international graffiti community. This year’s edition will count on the participation of over 35 artists from here and abroad.

While graffiti is the main focus of the festival, the urban art community also participates in the festivities. Thirty street artists will produce detailed works on smaller surfaces, using multiple mediums.

Queens Creation

Saturday, August 11 | 3 pm – 6 pm

Gamelin Gardens | 1500 Berri Street | Free

Created in 2013, Queens’ Creation is an annual event organized by CICU – International Convention of Urban Culture. It aims to celebrate, support and encourage the emancipation and recognition of women in urban culture, which is predominantly male. Nevertheless, this culture has more and more women, both in the visual arts, dance and music.

Live painting by Carolina Espinosa, HER and Monosourcil

Competitions and showcases of urban dances

Musical performances

Queens’ Creation Exhibition

Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 August

Saint-Catherine Theater | 264 Saint-Catherine Street East | Free

Once again, Queens’ Creation unites with the festival Under Pressure and presents a collective exhibition of about twenty local and international women artists with graffiti influences, street art, low brow and illustration. Artists are free to paint what they want but must include the title “Queen’s Creation” at their creation.

Collective exhibition presenting the works of about thirty artists on the theme of language

MUSIC

Outdoor musical performances

Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th August

Throughout its history, the musical component of Under Pressure has always been composed of multiple local, national and international talents, making the trip at their own expense. This year, the festival will host more than 50 deejays and 20 emcees and will present a wide variety of musical styles, going well beyond the borders of hip-hop. With the desire to incorporate new members into the festival family, to discover new talent and bring a breath of fresh air to the event, the 2018 program relies on several new employees.

This year, the mega block party on Saint-Catherine Street East on Saturday afternoon will host the American rapper Brother Ali (Rhyme Sayers label), recognized in the hip hop scene for almost 20 years now for his rap committed and non-violent.

Another musical event not to be missed: Ground Loop presented by Sunday Scratch Sessions, Unlog, Carousel Tour, Loop Sessions & Artbeat Montreal. A closing event of the festival to satisfy any amateur scratch and beatmaking, Sunday, August 12 from 12 pm to 03 pm at the Foufounes Electric.

MUSICAL PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Saturday, August 12th

Scene Under Pressure | St. Catherine Street East | from noon to 8 pm| Free

An important element of urban and hip-hop culture is urban dance, or popularly called street dance. Thanks to Under Pressure, local break dance groups, such as Flowrock and Tactical crew, have demonstrated their expertise and shared their talent. In 2015, the festival’s dance component was awarded the 2015 GADFLY Award “Outstanding Production”, a prize celebrating Canadian urban dance artists.

This year, the dance part of the festival counts more than 14 disciplines over 5 days. Nearly 300 street dancers from all over the world will participate in the events. The jury will be made up of 15 professional dancers.

Founded in Montreal in 1996 by Seaz and Flow graffiti artists, Under Pressure is the oldest active urban crop festival in the world. Its primary mission is to encourage community involvement through urban culture, and thus contribute to the development and outreach of urban arts at the local and international levels. Managed entirely by a team of volunteers in love with hip-hop culture, the festival has since its inception just like the block parties born in the 70s in New York. The organizers, street artists, graffiti artists, deejays, emcees and urban dancers have been coming together every year for the past 22 years and are volunteering for the event through a love for hip-hop culture.

CICU – THE UNDER PRESSURE FESTIVAL AND THE FRESH PAINT GALLERY

The International Convention on Urban Culture (CICU) is a non-profit organization that brings together the Under Pressure Festival and the Fresh Paint Gallery. Its mission is to promote the different aspects of urban culture and to bring people together around it through cultural and educational events. The CICU’s goal is to develop citizen involvement, in order to contribute to the promotion of arts and urban culture at the local and international level.

The International Convention on Urban Culture thanks the City of Montreal, the Borough of Ville Marie, the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, the Quartier des Spectacles Partnership, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Moog Audio and all its partners for their constant support and their contribution to the radiation of the body.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/under-pressure-festival-2018-starts-tomorrow-full-schedule/feed/0Two Local bands Kick off Osheaga’s Official Pre-party at L’Escogriffe – Pictureshttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/two-local-band-kick-off-osheagas-official-pre-party-at-lescogriffe-pictures/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/two-local-band-kick-off-osheagas-official-pre-party-at-lescogriffe-pictures/#respondFri, 03 Aug 2018 16:19:20 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50300It’s official – The countdown for one of Montreal’s favourite music festival is finaly over ! You can expect waves of Osheagians crowding the metro’s yellow line as early as noon ! Festival’s goers are indeed about to take the Ile Jean-Drapeau by assault for another incredible talent-packed edition! With well over a 100 artists […]

]]>It’s official – The countdown for one of Montreal’s favourite music festival is finaly over ! You can expect waves of Osheagians crowding the metro’s yellow line as early as noon ! Festival’s goers are indeed about to take the Ile Jean-Drapeau by assault for another incredible talent-packed edition!

With well over a 100 artists playing all over the city this weekend make sure you prepared your schedule well ! In case you missed it, Check out our Pre-Osheaga post for recommendation and Must-See Acts of the year and stay tuned for our weekend coverage !

Festivities were already echoing loud through St-Denis street last night at the Official Osheaga Pre-Party. It’s two local bands that exploded l’Escogriffe with their energy and raw sound to launch the 3 days music festival.

The Montreal trio named Zouz first took the stage at around 22:00, showing us how good it feel to let go and get in the groove. The amazing punk-rock band composed of David Marchand (Singer-Guitar-Writer) François Farouche (drums) and Étienne Dupré (Basse) gave a powerful grungy performance and warmed up the crowd pretty quickly !.

You could feel the energy and passion shine under those red lights through all of the performance.

PONCTUATIONTaking over the stage shortly after Zouz, was Psychedelic-Punk band Ponctuation who didn’t disappoint to keep the party going.

The Band from Montreal is one of those band who’s energy on stage will give you a raw authentic satisfaction out of every song they play. Yesterday, they presented their most recent album Mon herbier du monde entier. They had an amazing presence on stage and their musical arrangements were perfect for the unique gritty garage moods that l’Escogriffe offered.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/two-local-band-kick-off-osheagas-official-pre-party-at-lescogriffe-pictures/feed/0Punk Rock alive in Montreal – ’77 Montreal Festivalhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/punk-rock-alive-in-montreal-77-montreal-festival/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/punk-rock-alive-in-montreal-77-montreal-festival/#respondFri, 03 Aug 2018 13:49:09 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50306’77 Montreal Festival – The second edition of the ’77 Montreal festival took place Friday past at Parc Jean Drapeau, bringing together fans of the punk rock genre for a day out in the sun. Early crowds where sparse, presumably due to an early start time on what is a work day for many, but […]

]]>’77 Montreal Festival – The second edition of the ’77 Montreal festival took place Friday past at Parc Jean Drapeau, bringing together fans of the punk rock genre for a day out in the sun. Early crowds where sparse, presumably due to an early start time on what is a work day for many, but by the time punch cards where stamped quite a number had turned out. For many, ’77 serves as an introduction to Heavy Montreal that follows on the two preceding days, especially for the out of towners that had made the trek to Montreal for the event – but ’77 draws its own people too. In the blazing heat, they danced and drank into the sunset and into the mosh pits that broke out in rowdy fashion in front of every band that played.

77 Festival 2018 L7 By Kieron Yates

The festival is named after the year, 1977, which many believe is the start of the Punk genre, and much like last year, did a solid job of pulling artists from each era of Punk existence. Early in the day, two such names took to the stage. California’s L7, who were at the forefront of the Grunge movement in the early 90’s, alongside bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees and the likes, belted out their classics for the first on Montreal soil for the first time in nineteen years. The other being Steve Ignorant & Paranoid Visions. Ignorant was the frontman of the legendary anarchist punk band, Crass, and much of their set revolved around the former group. Other greats from years long gone included Suicidal Tendencies and Canadian’s D.O.A – and both bands gave great performances, closing their respective stages for the night. Rise Against rocked the final set of the main stage in front of a fine collection of people, capping off what was a great day of live music.

As loud and as frantic as the event had been, it was always evident that the key to the whole thing was fun – and family. Many of the older attendees where about the grounds with their offspring, ranging from weeks old to pre-teens. Others rekindled their youth, silver-haired and all. Seeing people from all walks of life and all ages coming together with a common interest is a fantastic thing. Music knows no boundaries nor does it abide to the concept of time.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/punk-rock-alive-in-montreal-77-montreal-festival/feed/0Heavy Music Festival Montrealhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/heavy-music-festival-montreal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/heavy-music-festival-montreal/#respondThu, 02 Aug 2018 22:20:44 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50271Heavy Music Festival Montreal – Following a year of hiatus, the nation’s premiere heavy music festival returned this past weekend, and gathered quite a gathering. High heat an a scorching sun had many running to the beer tents, and a party ambience floated above the festival for the duration of its two days. Not even […]

]]>Heavy Music Festival Montreal – Following a year of hiatus, the nation’s premiere heavy music festival returned this past weekend, and gathered quite a gathering. High heat an a scorching sun had many running to the beer tents, and a party ambience floated above the festival for the duration of its two days. Not even a thunderous monsoon during Marilyn Manson’s set on the first day could drown out the good times. It might have left lakes of muddy water everywhere and drenched everybody to the skin, but these musical extremists reacted by jumping and stomping about in the puddles and by generally rocking out, without a care in the world. Because nobody parties harder than fans of heavy music and to borrow a timeless albeit tired cliche, the show must go on.

The aforementioned master of shock rock, Marilyn Manson did take the stage to the relief of many, as his appearance was thrown into question with his last minute cancellation of his Toronto show the night prior. Showing up a good ten minutes late didn’t help the rumor mill as mutterings from the gathering ran wild with all manner of speculations. Alas came the man in question, although perhaps the effects of his flu medication made him stumble and seem a tad lost at times. We’ll stick to calling it flu medication. Whatever the case, Manson delivered a spellbinding performance and belted out a formidable set – even if the gaps between songs were a little exaggerated. Manson was a man possessed on the night and was on fire – until the skies opened up and drowned everyone. The remainder of the night was in question, but as Emperor took the stage, telling fans that they had been given permission to go ahead with their set, to the roaring appreciation of the drenched masses, that old adage about shows going on came around full circle once more. Two decades since its release, and about as long as these mighty Norwegians have been away from Montreal, Emperor played their 1997 album, “Anthems To The Welkin At Dusk”, from start to finish flawlessly with flashes of lightning kicking off all around the stage. The atmosphere couldn’t have been any better. Rob Zombie was next, playing a psychedelic neon set to the biggest crowd of the first night.

Day two featured Limp Bizkit replacing headliner Avenged Sevenfold who had backed out due to illness but Fred Durst and company were a worthy replacement that had the crowd jumping around for the duration of their set. He and guitarist Wes Borland jumped down off the stage and into the crowd for a while, too, with security scrambling to keep them out of trouble – but this is Montreal and a metal show, so there wasn’t any form of trouble to be found. There had been many great and noteworthy sets on the weekend but none better than that of France’s Gojira, who are treated like national heroes each and every time they return to Montreal – and their fans are always growing in numbers. To put it bluntly – Gojira were the pinnacle of the festival and truly awe inspiring. With flames bursting around them, Gojira firmly melted ears and further cemented themselves at the forefront of modern heavy music, which is a very good thing given the lyrical content of their work. Deeply concerned for the world and it’s wildlife, Gojira could inspire a generation to get involved in saving the sphere thing we all live on and perhaps put things right.

The return of Heavy Montreal was a welcomed experience, and one that thousands of people seemed to thoroughly enjoy. You just can’t stop the rock. That means you, Saint-Lambert.
ou, Saint-Lambert.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/heavy-music-festival-montreal/feed/0All You Need To Know Before OSHEAGA [Detailed Schedule + New Site ]http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/everything-you-need-to-know-about-osheaga-detailed-schedule/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/everything-you-need-to-know-about-osheaga-detailed-schedule/#respondThu, 26 Jul 2018 21:02:46 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50070Osheagians get ready ! The countdown for one of North America best music festival is running low !! In less than two week, Osheaga will take over l’Ile Notre-Dame, reuniting over 100 artists for a intense and condensed 3 days of music. Yes, we have reached that point of the summer where St-Lambert residents are going to […]

]]>Osheagians get ready ! The countdown for one of North America best music festival is running low !! In less than two week, Osheaga will take over l’Ile Notre-Dame, reuniting over 100 artists for a intense and condensed 3 days of music. Yes, we have reached that point of the summer where St-Lambert residents are going to complain about loud noise for 3 weekends in a row – But it’s hands down Osheaga whose echoes will impact and resonate the most trough the city streets and nightlife’s.

Overall, about 135 00 fans usually attend one of the city most awaited festival – 45 000 attendees a days – 70 per cent of whom are travelling from outside of the province. The restaurants and hotels are about to get full vacancy!

At this point, Montreal’s own unique indie-blend festival is now pretty much considered an institution ! Since it’s beginning in 2006, the festival hasn’t stopped growing, affirming itself as one of the world’s most successful music festivals. Radiohead, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, Eminem, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Smashing Pumpkins, Jack Johnson,The Killers, The Cure, Jack White, Black keys and Snoop Dogg are amongst a fraction of the international artist who’ve blessed the stage to enhance that reputation !

Osheaga’s line up used to featured prominently guitar band and alt rock with only a few dance and hip-hop artist. But Osheaga has since diversified considerably, adding generously multiples electronic act, pop and rapper !

“We looked at some negative feedback that we got last year, that there was not enough hip hop and not enough rock, and we made sure it was as balanced as possible.” said Osheaga director Nick Farkas in a interview with the Montreal Gazette back when the line-up released

Once again Osheaga is back with a strong and solid eclectic line-up

Here the line up for Osheaga 13th edition, happening on august 3rd -4th and 5th

This year line-up isn’t without nostalgia for the adepts who already seen some of the artist and headliner presented. Sure, it might feel déjà vue for the regular’s, but the festival Line up is far from weak and is presenting a considerable amount of little hidden gem you should know about.

Florence & The Machine is returning after stealing the show in 2015 with her insane energy on stage. The incredibly talented singer was literally angelic that year jumping and dancing everywhere barefoot – She also made her mark with a standout performance in 2012 in the earlier days of the festival. Florence will headline Sunday, August 5 – at 9:20 pm on Scène de la rivère Bell -The date is Florence’s first concert in North American since the release of her massively acclaimed new album High As Hope.

The Osheaga Director also add that these are bands who grew and developed alongs the montreal festival climbing the ladder to headlining – “I consider Portugal. The Man an Osheaga band. I love that they’ve played mid-afternoon sets and been fantastic. Arctic Monkeys, this is the fourth or fifth time they’ve played.

“Yeah Yeah Yeahs are coming back 10 years later; the National are coming back, and people are still talking about the set they played (eight) years ago.”

That being said, never assume you’ve seen everything of the Osheaga legends and experience’s. In fact, it’s going to feel like a first time experience for most of us, as the festival relocated his original site dues to construction – A True Montreal Reason –

But nobody’s is complaining about the exciting change of scenery. The Cult location have now been moved near the Montreal casino on the F1 circuit. It looks like one stage will be at the end of the famous “Hairpin” turn with the other main stage across on the inside of the turn. Plenty of seating should be available given the track already has grandstands installed !

“There’s no place wide enough to put those stages side by side and get the capacity we wanted,” said Osheaga founder Nick Farkas, adding the festival will host the same number of people as in previous years..”Many of Osheaga’s six stages will be closer together, “so there will be less walking on the site itself.”

Discover the New site

With the festival finally releasing the Detailed Schedule earlier this week, the hardest task is now up ahead. No suprise, there’s too much good talent to dance with and to much playing at the same time – We can already see all the conflicts you and your friend are debating -But don’t worry, we got your back !

We came up with a quick all-you-need-to-know guide to help your decision and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the must see acts this years. We definitely been trough that Post Osheaga depression and the FOMO feeling of reading about it afterward.

First, take a look at the detailed schedule

https://twitter.com/osheaga/status/1021440252693622786

Personalize your own schedule with the festival official App or Website – but before you make your schedule to promptly or too rigid yet, check out our list of favourites bands you Need to know about before heading to osheaga this year!

August 3rd – Day 1 – Travis Scott

First, we highly recommend you make it early to catch Sir Sly at 13:30 – Since forming in 2012, Sir Sly have forged a strong singular rock-electro identity. Theirs beat and sound are unique, creative and catchy… this is definitely going to start your weekend with the perfect grooves.

Then head straight to our own very talented Matt Holubowski at 14:05, one of the few very promising local star presented this year. Although the native of Montreal Hudson community performs predominantly in English, his audience until recently has been almost exclusively francophone, thanks to a 2015 stint on La Voix, where he made it to the “final four.” His album has stayed for weeks on top of the charts, and has won critical and public acclaim. The songwriter voice and captivating melodies will offer a warm and perfectly executed performance once again. Matt Holubowski is one of those indie artist that will seduce you within the first few song !

Don’t miss out on Alexander O’Connor, better known by his stage name Rex Orange County. The 20 year old songwriter from the UK is already at his second album and it’s all shining with talents and sophisticated musical arrangements. He have an interesting alternative sound that fusion indie, folks and rock with a slight touch of jazz and sweet randomness. His engaging sound is a crowd pleasing guarantees. It will be interesting to see him on stage at 16:55 with his engaging sound and pleasing vibe… He his one of the youngest artist you must discover over the course of the Osheaga weekend.

Cigarettes After Sex might not sound like an exciting band to see in an outdoor venues like Osheaga, but this is a rare occasion to see the elusive and mysterious band in a intriguing set. Their melancholic pop noir sound set in smoke-filled darkness is perfect if you feel for a more mellow rhythms. The band is for fans of Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game,” Beach House and the XX

Obviously we know who’s playing at the same time … Portugal.the man however is definitely one of the more mainstream choices if you’r looking for wild and mega dance floor … His hit ”Feel It still” is for sure one going to be one of those crazy frenzy crowd momens. Even more exciting is that ”The Man” has countless amount of other energetic track to keep the crowd rolling and rolling. Although he’s been said to have lost some of is uniqueness flirting too close to the mainstream, Portugal. the man is still extremely creative and he his apparently constantly experimenting with his sound and light during his most recent tour – See this Article from Vancouver Weekly – Portugal. The Man shock fans with experimental performance – VancouverWeekly

Finally, if you don’t feel for some Travis Scott‘s to finish your night. We strongly suggest you check out James Blakes at Scene Verte – Banque National at 21:45. Blake is one of the most intriguing sound for those who haven’t discovered his discography yet – Kanye, Beyoncé, Drake and Frank Ocean have all been inspired by the unassuming Londoner’s sound. You will feel his slow electronic groove gradually get in your bones with his build up and powerful progression . The 6’-6’’ gentle giant is a master of control and minimalistic sounds. His space upbeat and soft unique voice will mesmerize you throughout the show. This is going to be the perfect mood and ambiance for the first Osheaga night !

Here our other favourites band you shouldn’t miss on Friday august 3rd !

August 4th – Day 2 – Arctic Monkeys

LP been writing hits after hits for countless of international superstars, such as Rihana, Cristina Aguilera and Beyonce’s Destiny Child. However, the incredible songstress is at her best on stage. She controls her voice with such mastery and performs with such passion and joy that her live rendition usually goes far beyond the original studio version. LP is one of those well-respected artist who’s reputation and cult-like followers would strongly recommend you see her at least once in your life ! Even thought Alvvays is also playing at the same time, don’t miss the opportunity to see her Saturday at 16:05 on Scène de la rivière bell

Next at 16:50 on Scène de la montagne is a underrated gems. Afie Jurvanen, isn’t really from the Bahamas. He’s a Finnish-Canadian from Barrie–a working class town in rural Ontario. But his chosen epithet is fitting. Since 2009 he’s been making music under the name Bahamas–writing songs about sunsets, love affairs, and making out with crooked smiles. Through simple arrangements, he does incredibly smooth melody and creates outstanding moods. He’s one of the artist who will surprise you and infect you with his fresh joyful vibe for the entire weekend !

Unfortunately, Kali Uchis will also be performing at the same time. The grammy nominated Colombian latest album – Isolation– was an unbelievable collaboration that resulted in a genre hopping pop experiences. Kali album is named to best of 2018 list from the likes of Rolling Stone, Billboard and Consequence of Sound. Fittingly for the bilingual, bicultural, her album included Spanish-language track “Nuestro Planeta” who features fellow Colombian singer Reykon and rocks a low-key, reggaeton roll; Tyler, the Creator and Bootsy Collins also shared the sunshine on laid-back funk tune “After the Storm”. It’s hard to know what to expect of Kali Uchis setlist considering most of her recent materials include feat from other singers, but Kali Uchis will not disapoint you ! In fact, she just unveiled a new video today for a previously unheard acoustic version of ” Dead to me” –

Shout out for Blondie for still touring at 72 year old, but our attention and focus will be entirely on Allan Rayman at 17:30. The toronto based Singer-songwriter has a sublime raw gritty voice and his authentic irresistible styles blends rocks, R&B and folks in the most mysterious way. His pure passion and powerful percussion jams will simply amazes you !

Hopefully we won’t have to convince you too hard to go see Loud instead of that band with the kid from Netflix’s Stranger Things. His reputation shouldn’t be hard to argue with – Quebec hip hop experts are calling him one of the most talented rapper of the province. He rocked the stage at the Quebec Summer Festival at the start of this month with an epic set that certainly got the crowd going – check our entire FEQ coverage – his album and video both have reccord high views for a montreal rapper. If you’r going to miss him, please let it be for Future Island, the well establish American synthpop band.

Last but not least is probably one of the day most important one. It’s the unreal Billie Eilish, the youngest artist performing at osheaga this year – probably of all editions ! The 16 year old – Yes, 16 year old singer is actually overly talented and we’ve barely seen the extent of her creativity and promising universe. She earned everybody respects with her wild mature style, stunning voice and incredible visual. If this isn’t exciting for you enough, Billie just released a single last week and she does have a song with the amazing Khalid – Who btw will performing hours before Eilish on the stage beside #whosjoiningwho? – Don’t get your hope up but it’s safer to do both show at this points …

The rest of our favourites bands for Saturday 4th of August !

August 5th – Day 3 – Florence & The Machine

We know that sleeping and resting will be tempting after two full Osheaga day, but we must insist that you head there early again for the last day of the festival. The upcoming american artist Two Feet will take the stage at 14:00. Still very unknown and underground, the new york based artist have this slight touch that makes sexy and attractive rhythms on the like of an acoustic Chet Faker’. Two feet will be one of the early gem to discover that day !

Following Two Feet at 14:45 will be the young and electric Lauv. The multi platinum-selling producer, singer /songwriter career is exploding with the success of his hit single, I like me Better. As an artist Lauv has achieved over a billions stream and have been named ono of Spotify’s global top 100 artists. At 23, his discography already include so many irresistible dancing tunes of indie electro pop with fuses of R&B.

Stay tuned, Because we might get a exclusive glimpse at the independant artist mind with a special interview live on site.

Dua lipa is also a clear evident bet for a highlight this year. Her enormous fan-base will most likely overrun the space and literally go nuts for the entire pop star set. Rendez-vous at 17:40 on scène de la rivière. Here is her biggest and most successful hits in case you’ve been living under a rock for the past year.

Nobody compares to Tash sultana when it comes to performing by herself! We are very blessed to have Tash playing again at 16:55 on la Scène de la montagne. The Musical mastermind is literally a one woman-band. The dynamic artist creates most of her unique and complex songs alone. She’ll start with a badass guitar riff that she’ll loop using a consoles and than play and sing over it with her brilliant voice. Tash made a name for herself busking on the streets of Melbourne, selling out shows with no promo and having homemade videos go viral online getting tens of millions of views. Even more impressive, is her obvious passion and energy ! Watching her smile and facial expression through her dancing and movement couldn’t be more engaging and entertaining. Her insane skills never cease to surprise so don’t miss her out !

The National might be a harder listen for some because the dark blunt depressing style might destabilize some. Last performance 8 years ago was one of the most talked and memorable show. Their genius is all in the smart lyricism and elaborate musical harmony. With a style and deep voice that remind a certain Nick Cage, the National are a master of their art and genres. They will grab your attention and make you float in a unforgettable universe for the entire show ! The National are amongst the most mysterious and fascinating band too see live at Osheaga this year !

The last debate is probably a bit bitter for some ! Post Malone will be playing at the same time of Franz Ferdinand at 19:20

Both show will split the festival goers and the crew in two ! To the credit of Franz Ferdinand, they never had quite the fame they deserve and seeing them live is not something you’ll forget soon. The band has been the leader of the punk-revival waves for almost 20 year now. Truth is you probably already know 1/2 if not 3/4 of theirs hit and a good rock-punk show is always going to get the crowd pump up and rattle – who doesn’t like a good punk show !

Here are the other artists to watch out for the last days of the festival

Don’t miss out the artist who are also performing across the city. For those afraid they won’t have enough music in theirs systems or for anybody who want the full true Osheaga experience’s should consider doing at least one Official Pre-Party or After-Party – Multiples artist who are performing at Osheaga will do private intimate Set across the city – Check the full list here !

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/everything-you-need-to-know-about-osheaga-detailed-schedule/feed/0Limp Bizkit – Two amazing music festivals this weekendhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/limp-bizkit-two-amazing-music-festivals-this-weekend-77-festival-and-heavy-montreal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/limp-bizkit-two-amazing-music-festivals-this-weekend-77-festival-and-heavy-montreal/#respondWed, 25 Jul 2018 17:53:30 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50099Limp Bizkit – On Friday, July 27th, the second edition of the ’77 festival will take place, featuring some of the hottest names in alternative and punk rock. Artists playing include the Grunge era legends L7, who haven’t played a show in the province of Quebec for going on two decades – and where part of […]

]]>Limp Bizkit – On Friday, July 27th, the second edition of the ’77 festival will take place, featuring some of the hottest names in alternative and punk rock. Artists playing include the Grunge era legends L7, who haven’t played a show in the province of Quebec for going on two decades – and where part of the Seattle explosion of the early 90’s that gave the music world bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden. Rise Against, Suicidal Tendencies, AFI, Me First And The Gimmie Gimmies are all set to play, as well as more than a dozen more great bands.

On Saturday and Sunday, the return of the nation’s premiere hard rock and metal festival, Heavy Montreal, will take to the park. Featuring some of the biggest names in heavy music, like the legendary Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie, the newly added Limp Bizkit who take the place of Avenged Sevenfold who have had to cancel several dates due to an undisclosed illness within the band, Canadian rock icon Lee Aaron, Montreal’s Voivod, the hip hop sounds of Tech N9ne, Sleep, Emperor, Gojira, Baroness, Hollywood Undead as well as a plethora of artists play the two day party and tickets to both festivals are still available.

If you’re looking for something to do this coming weekend, and in the mood for some live music, then head out to Parc Jean Drapeau where a pair of music festivals are set to take place.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/limp-bizkit-two-amazing-music-festivals-this-weekend-77-festival-and-heavy-montreal/feed/0Demi Lovato rushed to hospital on apparent ODhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/demi-lovato-rushed-to-hospital-on-apparent-od/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/demi-lovato-rushed-to-hospital-on-apparent-od/#respondTue, 24 Jul 2018 20:47:10 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=50057Demi Lovato rushed to hospital – Demi Lovato was rushed to an L.A. hospital after what appears to be a heroin overdose says Los Angelas Police. Demi Lovato age 26 Od in her home in the Hollywood Hills. Demi Lovato has fought achohol and drug abuse for a long time. She had been sober for […]

]]>Demi Lovato rushed to hospital – Demi Lovato was rushed to an L.A. hospital after what appears to be a heroin overdose says Los Angelas Police. Demi Lovato age 26 Od in her home in the Hollywood Hills.

Demi Lovato has fought achohol and drug abuse for a long time. She had been sober for the last six years with a relapse a month ago.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/demi-lovato-rushed-to-hospital-on-apparent-od/feed/0Radiohead rocks 2 amazing nights at the Bell Centre ( Video + Photos )http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/radiohead-rocks-2-nights-at-the-bell-centre/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/radiohead-rocks-2-nights-at-the-bell-centre/#respondThu, 19 Jul 2018 02:13:59 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49920Radiohead reunited with 15 000 fans for their first of two representations at the Bell Center last monday night ! The mythical band performed for their first visit in two years, only confirming that they are one of the most fascinating live acts of their time. Dreamers, they never learn #radiohead A post shared by […]

]]>Radiohead reunited with 15 000 fans for their first of two representations at the Bell Center last monday night ! The mythical band performed for their first visit in two years, only confirming that they are one of the most fascinating live acts of their time.

Since their first performance in Montreal at the late bar, Woodstock, in 1993, Radiohead’s genius has never ceased to amaze us with stunning performances !

Their show at Osheaga in 2016 is one the festivals most memorable performances. The band then played a solid 32 song set list that included rare tracks, but also presented their totaly new album ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’, an album that was barely a week old and is now one of the band’s most critically acclaimed.

This time, Thom Yorke kept his impressive roll going with one of Montreal’s biggest shows of the year! He Graced the stage with his intriguing personality and virtuosity along with the bands guitarists – Jonny Greenwood and Ed O Brian, both on the Rolling Stone’s list of ‘Best guitarist’s of all time’ – also being joined by Colin Greenwood, the bands bassist and Clive Deamer, drummer from Portishead that joined the tour in 2016. It was a special sensorial experience filled with intense visuals and scenic light shows that brought everybody into the band’s strange state of mind.

The OPENER

The Bell Center stage was first warmed up by Junun. One of Jonny Greenwood’s side projects with Israeli artist Shye Ben Tzur and the Rajasthan Express, a group of very talented Rajasthani musicians. They presented tracks off their self-titled and highly-praised 2015 album. The group brought their traditional music to a large, dark stage, transforming the opening set into a fresh celebration of international culture.

The band first walked on the stage surrounded by beams of light and a long storm of applause and cheers at around 9:00. Capturing every soul in the audience with the space and melodic track ‘Daydreaming’. Immersing instantly all spectators into their universe for all the 2hr:20mins that followed.

The Montreal crowd was already in love and enjoyed every second of the legendary live act. After all Radiohead remain one of the most mysterious and elusive band of all time. Their fans have unlimited respect for them and follow them from all around the world.

the event included all kinds of dedicated fans camping out for hours before the show under the hot summer sun, and a special shout out to the many moms and girls who camp out very early on the day

I’ve experienced very few artists that managed to catch such deep attention and focus from a crowd. Even at their outdoor Osheaga show, Radiohead got near breathless silence through all of their quieter more obscure songs ! The same respect and fascination was shown by the crowd last Monday night ! Thom Yorke does not need to talk to the crowd to mesmerize. His face expression, movements and timeless voice are pure creativity and couldn’t be more engaging

RADIOHEAD – Give Up The Ghost [4k] Live @ Bell Centre Montreal

The British band covered songs from their last album ‘A Moon Shaped Pool’ but also played songs from all other albums since O.K computer (1997) – (at the exception of Amnesiac (2001).

The Montreal audience was even blessed with 6 songs from the fantastic ‘In Rainbows’. One of the very personal Radiohead albums, with the singer describing most of it as his version of “seduction songs”.

Radiohead selected songs from across their vast and ecletic discography. Leaving a few classic behind, but overall giving a show that touched all of their style. The track “Everything In Its Right Place,” was flirting a bit on the electronic side then switching straight to rock groove with ‘Lotus Flower’. The night then got even more intimate when Yorke sat at the piano to perform the seductive and emotional ‘Videotape’. Followed by the melodic masterpiece ‘No suprise’.

The lead singer showed his skill over all instruments, jumping from from electric and acoustic guitar, to keyboard, piano and tambourine. The standing ovations kept rising during the encores, which began with ‘Bodysnatchers’ , and the crowd pleasing ’’House of Cards’’. They finally ended up the night stunning the crowd with the much awaited ‘’Karma Police ‘’.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/radiohead-rocks-2-nights-at-the-bell-centre/feed/0BECK+PHOENIX at the FEQ Last Night (25+ Photos)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/beck-and-phoenix-at-the-feq/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/beck-and-phoenix-at-the-feq/#respondFri, 13 Jul 2018 20:05:25 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49719See all our photo from BECK and PHOENIX First performance at the Quebec City Summer Festival – FEQ. BECK The unpredictable BECK, one of the most prolific and eclectic music creators of the last century, gave his Quebec city fans quite a special show last night for his first time at the festival. Beck Hansen […]

]]>See all our photo from BECK and PHOENIX First performance at the Quebec City Summer Festival – FEQ.

BECK

The unpredictable BECK, one of the most prolific and eclectic music creators of the last century, gave his Quebec city fans quite a special show last night for his first time at the festival.

Beck Hansen began his show with ‘Devil’s Haircut’, of his Odelay Album, but jumped straight to one of his masterpieces, ‘Loser’. The 1994 hit was by far the best reaction of the night, especially when the entire crowd began to sing the ”I’m a loser baby, so why don’t you kill me…” verse. Beginning a journey filled with psychedelic visuals and a set list that explored all eras of his colourful discography.

The crowd however wasn’t always as responsive and engaged to the unconventional star demands. His request to sing ”Even if you don’t know the lyrics” to Prince’s ”Raspberry Beret”, honestly, wasn’t a success. The crowd stayed rather silent or hilariously trying to sing something. But Beck and the crowd did not really care much and it didn’t take much time for the party to start again.

The 48-year-old American also showed his impressive and smooth improvisation skills during a rare solo acoustic version of ‘Debra’ (A personal favourite). The star began adding funny lines within the first 30 seconds of the song, quickly singing random rhymes like ”Quebec, because my name is Beck”. The absolute highlight of the night !

Among other strong moments was when Beck presented his bandmates. Each band member got their moment playing a 70-80’s cover with Beck! Anything from Phil Collins’ In the Air tonight, to the Rolling Stones’ ”I miss you” and even some Talking Heads.

Beck finished the 80 minute performance charming the crowd with his harmonica grooves and also requesting our flashlights to illuminate the historic plains. A request that wasn’t ignored!

PHOENIX

Phoenix was also performing for their first time at the Quebec City Summer Festival. The group from France warmed up the stage before the main event of the night! The crowd, that actually wasn’t very dense for the first half of the show, enjoyed the very addictive rhythms of the indie band’s most successful album, ”Wolfgang Amadeus Pheonix”, released in 2009.

A special cheer to the badass young lady who was rocking in the front row!

Finally, the performance gained a high peak of excitement and intensity when the lead singer, Thomas Mars, started quite a long session of ‘Crowd Surfing’ and ‘Crowd Walking’.

For those who missed our coverage of the first few day of the Quebec City Music Festival – Check out our previous post – Best of the FEQ – Day 1 to 4 !

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/beck-and-phoenix-at-the-feq/feed/0A 10 min Chat With Toronto Rising Star SAYAhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/10-min-interview-with-toronto-rising-pop-star-saya/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/10-min-interview-with-toronto-rising-pop-star-saya/#respondThu, 12 Jul 2018 10:00:31 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49617Get to know and understand the mysterious mind of the very promising SAYA in our latest interview ! The uniquely creative Toronto Star share her new ultra retro visuals for her single ”Side Ting” and announce a new EP ”SUGAR COATED” to be released this august. It’s only been 5 month since we’ve been able to […]

]]>Get to know and understand the mysterious mind of the very promising SAYA in our latest interview ! The uniquely creative Toronto Star share her new ultra retro visuals for her single ”Side Ting” and announce a new EP ”SUGAR COATED” to be released this august.

It’s only been 5 month since we’ve been able to discover Saya new music and personality. The experimental Pop fusionist explored multiple styles creating her own unique sound with her previous album release in January 2018, ‘Chills and thrills’! But she is back with an evolved version of herself. More confident, more talented and more unconventional than ever !

The 23 Year-old artist did not go unnoticed back in 2016 when she unleashed the R&B infected track ”Wet Dreams”. The track earned some serious time in the spotlight and she promised to keep challenging the genre boundaries ! Simultaneously holding Canadian, Israeli, Russian and Sicilian backgrounds, Saya‘s enigmatic vision and new material only gets more and more interesting.

Her fusion of Funk, Pop and old school Hip-Hop which she mixes with her space hypnotic voice, blends together in a mesmerizing way. Even more fascinating is her own elusive and mysterious brand of silky pop that she injects with her interest in Classic Horror Films.

‘Side Ting‘ shows that Saya is more than just her music; her bold early 00s inspired style of thigh highs, plaid skirts, and white fringe laced dresses reveals a DGAF attitude that carries through her relaxed yet confident vocal delivery. Inspired in part by Britney Spears’ song “Mmm Papi,” “Side Ting” was written at a time when Saya says she felt stuck.

“I was lusting for something different and for something more. I tried to depict a playful yet intense visual to go along with the song that almost felt like you were in my head with me.”

Watch the new clip bellow,

With her hew upcoming EP announced for August, we were very lucky to get an interview with SAYA and learn more about her intriguing passion

First, can you tell us a bit about your life at the moment?
Right now I’m wrapping up my next project, getting ready to release new singles and more visuals.

What is your most recent day-to-day ? what makes you the most happy ?
I try to get into studio sessions as often as I can, however when I’m not in the studio I’m usually working from home on creative projects, researching, writing, or spending time with the people who inspire me most. Travelling and creating makes me the most happy.

What would you do with your time if you didn’t work in music?
I would probably want to be a creative director.

What are your fondest musical memories as you were growing up ?
Loving Brittany Spears and pretending to be a pop star whenever I had the chance.

You mentioned before that you did a lot of writing, do you exclusively write song lyrics or other types also ?
When I was younger I liked to write short stories and poetry, which eventually led me to songwriting. I still write a lot of poetry that I end up integrating into songs.

What inspires you the most lately ?
My friends and my boyfriend have been inspiring me… surrounding myself with likeminded individuals who motivate, support but also challenge me.

You also talked about your previous acting and performing experiences. Do you still do some and what did you enjoy the most ?
I’m not acting or doing any other performance art at this point other than playing shows. I hope to get back into acting at some point in the near future it has always been a huge passion of mine.

Which artists are most frequently on your playlist ?
Quincy Got Rich, Nicki Minaj, Trippie Red, Kid Cudi, Ashanti and so many more!

How would you describe your process to compose music?
Sometimes I will freestyle while playing guitar and come up with melodies or lyrics to use when I go into a studio session. Sometimes it starts with free styling melodies and lyrics over a beat. However I prefer when the producer makes the beat as I write the song, as I find it difficult to just write over a beat on a loop. I also like to be a part of the producing process and have input so it becomes a true collaboration.

What was the main inspiration during your last album creation ?
The ideas of success, lust and fantasy.

What are your thoughts on musical genres ? Do you feel like your a specific genre yourself ?
I don’t think much of genre – I appreciate all types of music. I would consider myself to make pop music.

What, in your opinion, is overrated?
Most things.

Opinions on Spotify and streaming services?
Mixed feelings to be honest. Sometimes I feel it’s difficult as an independent artist to penetrate through all the new music. Especially coming from Canada – getting on American playlists is really key to getting streams and sometimes I feel like being from Canada is a disadvantage. However I appreciate the support that Spotify Canada and Apple Music Canada give me and am so grateful to get to be on their editorial playlists.

Any side projects going on right now ?
I’m wrapping up visuals for my next project titled: ‘Sugar Coated’.

Any accomplishments you would really like to achieve ?
I strive to become a better artist and challenge myself daily. I have a huge list of things I want to accomplish and right now my biggest goal is having my music break internationally and start playing more shows/opening up for bigger acts.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/10-min-interview-with-toronto-rising-pop-star-saya/feed/0Best of The FEQ – Day 1 to 4 of the Quebec City Music Festival (videos + Pics)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/montreal/best-of-quebec-city-music-festival-feq/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/montreal/best-of-quebec-city-music-festival-feq/#respondWed, 11 Jul 2018 00:11:48 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49486FEQ – It’s official one of the best and biggest music festivals in Canada started it’s impressive 11 day line-up in gorgeous weather last Thursday. Presenting an unbelievable amount of 2500 shows across 10 venues for only a 100$. The First few days of the FEQ is already confirming that This is Music Festival at his Finest […]

]]>FEQ – It’s official one of the best and biggest music festivals in Canada started it’s impressive 11 day line-up in gorgeous weather last Thursday. Presenting an unbelievable amount of 2500 shows across 10 venues for only a 100$. The First few days of the FEQ is already confirming that This is Music Festival at his Finest !

The Quebec City Summer festival, or Festival d’été de Quebec, more commonly known as the FEQ, is among Quebecs most exciting and well set-up music festivals. Not only is the festival located downtown along some of the most scenic streets of the region, but the main events take place on the cities historic Plains of Abraham. A Massive field that can host a ridiculous amount of people, allowing the biggest self-supporting stage in Canada.

The city celebrated the 50th edition of the festival last year in quite spectacular fashion with headliners like ; The Who, Muse, Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar and even The Backstreet boy. [see FEQ previous line up] but the festival definitely did not back down on their 51st edition, presenting one of their best line ups in years !

Line Up 2018

DAY 1 – THE WEEKND, JETHRO TULL, CHROMEO

The festival debuted with a long and much awaited opening performance from one of the most streamed artist of the moment. The Weeknd was was actually performing in the city for the first time as his show last year at the Videotron Center was cancelled over resale ticket abuse. He delivered a brilliant performance that brought all the still-hurt fans into a dancing Frenzy, forgetting the incident within the first moments !

The massive crowd welcomed the star with endless cheers and excitement around 9:45, for an hour and a half set, that included the superstars most recent singles and biggest hits. Both tracks ; ‘Call Out My Name‘ and ‘I Can’t Feel My Face When I’m With You’‘, created the most energetic waves of singing and dancing of the night.

The Toronto born Star did not disappoint playing a solid set without any slow time. Singing song after song, still keeping everyone engaged with his energy and presence on stage, despite the singers minimal interaction with the crowd.

The festival goers also had multiple options to enjoy all genres of music throughout the entire first day. Even though the heat wave was pretty much cooking all over Quebec ! The FEQ offers multiple other stages all over the city, indoor and outdoor until 11:30… Jethro Tull (picture bellow) the classic British band, famously known for the rock’s flute, also performed that day, attracting a much older crowd. Unlike the duo Chromeo (pictured Bellow) who first did their regular set, and then closed the festival after party with a special Dj set !

For those who haven’t noticed on the line up, the diversity of music genres presented at the FEQ is incredibly unique and wildly eclectic. Every style of music is being offered and each stage provides a different experience. Both families and the intense party animals each have their zones accordingly, allowing everybody to find a comfortable dynamic !

Here are the other stages and zones scattered across the city !

It’s worth noting that the city has done an outstanding job managing the crowd movement and general access to services, like toilets and drinks ! Obviously, it’s a music festival ! The Entrance gate, the alcohol stands and the toilets will have their crazy peak moments. The front rows will be crushed toward the fences, and you are most likely going to lose your friend for at least 30 mins. But the Festival does not feel that hard to move around as it isn’t really limited on space and the movement in-and out are spectacularly smooth. Especially considering that the general capacity of the plains is around 80 000 people each day. A number well over what any Montreal festival can host.

FEQ DAY 2 – NEIL YOUNG, BONOBO and PASSENGER

The Second day of the festival was set to be an even bigger show. Which is a bit of a understatement, since he’s literally a legend ! But Canadian Icon, Neil Young rocked the entire Friday night festivities. He was joined by Promise of the Real. The band formed by Willie Nelson’s singer-songwriter son, Lukas Nelson; who on Friday was joined by an another son, Micah Nelson.

The exceptional composer and his crew gave a stunning 2 hr performance filled with as many guitar changes as songs. Indeed the 72 year old showed his impressive guitar skill, extending all of his songs with sick solos. The Band jammed long instrumental sessions of guitar licks and riffs throughout the performance.

“It’s my first time here. I can’t believe it,” he said, quickly adding a self-deprecating disclaimer. “Either that, or I can’t remember (because) I’m too old.” But, Neil,was right. In all the 51 years that Festival d’été de Québec has taken over the provincial capital, Young has never graced its stages.

While some fans might have been disappointed with him failing to provide some of his most memorable classic, like ‘Heart of Gold‘ and ‘Old Man’… Well to be honest … it’s actually more fair to say that all fans were pretty disappointed with him not playing his greatest hits ( It’s certainly the most common comment you will hear about the show !) But Young however did a memorable performance that still included ‘Rocking in the Free world’ and ‘Harvest moon’ . [Full Set list]

Switching to acoustic guitar, Young made his most obvious political statement of the night with the sweet melodic I Am A Child, dedicated to the families separated under Trump’s immigration policy. “Here’s a song for all the children,” Young said, “all the children in cages everywhere.”

FEQ DAY 3 – FUTURE , LIL YATHCY, LOUD and KILLY

You were better not to underestimate the number of fans for the Hip Hop Night of the festival. The plains were filled all the way to the back to see Future. The very popular American rapper gave an extremely visual show presenting a solid set to a delirious crowd. He is after all the fifth-longest charting streak ever on the Billboard Hot 100, after 166 consecutive weeks. The third day of the festival was a completely different adventure. As you can imagine the crowd and scenery was quite different than the one from the night before.

But Future wasn’t the only one who brought a massive crowd Saturday ! Many came to celebrate one of Quebecs Artists of the Moment, Loud ( see pictures bellow) Yes, Our own montreal-born, was the second headliner of the night. Giving a chilling performance that only confirms his incredible talent and title as one of the best french Hip Hop artist in the province right now. Loud also received a commemoration plate underlining his first position at the top 100 BDS ! A first for a hip-hop track on the radio said his partner Ajust who was sharing the stage with him!

However, It’s Lil Yatchy that won ‘best entertainer of the night’ ! The red dreadlocks rapper gave a very unusual set engaging his fans in the most unique and creative way. The 20 year-old rapper began with a mission to make the ground shake, asking all his fan to jump and stomp on the floor quickly. Of course, he got off the stage to check if the land was trembling enough.

He than required mosh-pit all over the place and finished with one last eccentricity, A massive water fight. Yes, you read right ! His team proceeded to a massive distribution of water bottles, specifying that they were not to drink. He than asked the fans to throw them up in the air at the same timeto get as many people wet as possible.

FEQ DAY 4 – SHAWN MENDES, CAMILA CABELLO, JAIN

The night started with an unbelievably fresh and fun latin vibe around 8:00, when Camila Cabello jumped on stage. The 21-year old, who was a previous contestant of the American edition of The X Factor in 2012, only became an international superstar this year with the release of her debut solo album ! The Cuban-American singer was almost angelic singing and seduced everyone with her smash hit song ‘Havana’, which everybody recognized within the first note !

But Camila Cabello wasn’t the main reason why the FEQ was invaded with the ‘generation Z’ that night. It was primarily to see one of their favourite Idols, Shawn Mendes ! In fact, the Canadian sweetheart literally exploded the decibel meter on his first step on the scene – maybe because of his half open shirt and care-free tousled hair – But honestly, the 19 year old reminded everybody within the first words he sang, that he his undeniably talented !

His clear crisp voice live is almost as perfect as his recording and his crazy charisma even managed to make older generations mesmerize through his performance. After all, the young singer already has 3 CD released before his 20’s and his first single ‘Stiches’ has over a billion views on Youtube.

The fans, mostly feminine, would scream with all their lung at every interaction from the star between the songs. Shawn even gave his fans more reason to scream when he walked down off the stage to sing near them, causing an explosion of teenage howling.

Like Camila Cabello just before, Shawn Mendes took a short detour on the piano, performing the hit ‘Thinking About You’. He then moved on to his acoustic guitar performing a brilliant performance of Youth.

” I see so many young faces in the crowd tonight… you Have The power To Change the World!

Shawn Mendes also repeated multiples times ”Quebec, I love you !” especially when the entire festival turned on their phone Flashlights and waved them in the air !

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/montreal/best-of-quebec-city-music-festival-feq/feed/0Jorja Smith playing Montreal – Lost & Found Tour (videos)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/jorja-smith-playing-montreal-lost-found-tour-videos/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/jorja-smith-playing-montreal-lost-found-tour-videos/#respondTue, 10 Jul 2018 21:21:10 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49550Jorja Smith playing Montreal – With the completion of her third sold-out US Spring tour in May including a phenomenal debut performance at Coachella, Jorja Smith has announced that she will embark on a North American tour this Fall in support of her recently released and critically praised debut album Lost & Found. The 18 date tour begins November 19th in Seattle, Washington, hitting major […]

]]>Jorja Smith playing Montreal – With the completion of her third sold-out US Spring tour in May including a phenomenal debut performance at Coachella, Jorja Smith has announced that she will embark on a North American tour this Fall in support of her recently released and critically praised debut album Lost & Found. The 18 date tour begins November 19th in Seattle, Washington, hitting major markets in the US and Canada throughout December, concluding on December 19th in Toronto, Ontario. Jorja Smith fan club members will have exclusive pre-sale access for select shows beginning Wednesday, July 11th at 10AM local time, general tickets go on sale July 13th, 10AM local time – check www.jorjasmith.com for more info.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/jorja-smith-playing-montreal-lost-found-tour-videos/feed/0Madeline Merlo – Extended interview with BC ‘Rising Star’http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/madeline-merlo-interview-with-rising-star/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/madeline-merlo-interview-with-rising-star/#respondThu, 05 Jul 2018 10:22:39 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49348Madeline Merlo – Local country artist Madeline Merlo talks about her move to Nashville and her new single Neon Love. With two Top 15 Canadian Country singles and a CCMA ‘’Rising Star’’ award, Madeline Merlo is quickly establishing herself as one of our brightest new female country music stars. The Maple Ridge B.C. Native recently released […]

]]>Madeline Merlo – Local country artist Madeline Merlo talks about her move to Nashville and her new single Neon Love. With two Top 15 Canadian Country singles and a CCMA ‘’Rising Star’’ award, Madeline Merlo is quickly establishing herself as one of our brightest new female country music stars. The Maple RidgeB.C. Native recently released her new single NEON LOVE and just started headlining across Canada and the United states.

Listen to Madeline Merlo New Song

The 24 year old artist moved to Nashville last November trying to make it in one of the worlds biggest country scenes. The Nashville downtown is actually a crazy thriving hub for the industry and local music artists. In fact, in 2013, the Bureau of Labor Statistics ranked the state of Tennessee as number one in America for its concentration of musician jobs.

While she is aware of the ridiculously competitive market, Madeline sounded eager, ready to work hard, and seem to enjoy every second of it when she sat down with us for an exlusive interview last week.

See the full interview Below !

Madeline Merlo has always had eclectic taste, in her music you’ll hear the influence of classic country artists like Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline, R&B greats Etta James and Billie Holiday, and modern superstars such as Miranda Lambert. Merlo is also a champion of local artisans and is passionate about promoting new designers.

Just weeks after her recent move to Nashville, Merlo landed on US Weekly’s List of best-dressed artists at the Country Music Awards. She is currently collaborating with some of the biggest names in country on new music, continuing to live up to Spotify’s prediction that she will be one of the biggest rising stars to watch.

Her free-spirited joyful style and passion reflects through her music and her talent still has so much to offer.

Listen to more Madeline Merlo songs

How do you find the experience of moving from BC to Nashville so far ?
I love Nashville, it’s definitely a spot you have to be if you want to be a country singer. It’s kind of the Hotspot. It’s also a great spot for songwriting. It’s obviously a completely different scenery and culture, but I came here to grow and work hard. I also still travel back and forth quite often, since I play a lot of shows in Canada.

Do you think Nashville local culture already had an influence on you ?
Yes, I mean… I am here writing all day, so it’s definitely influencing my writing. My writing has improved just from practicing here. I think Nashville is so competitive, you really see how talented people are and their work ethic. Everybody is just working really hard, which is really inspiring and terrifying, and a whole bunch of emotions into one.

Did you move with friends or by yourself, because Nashville was the next logical step ?
Yes, I kind of just went there by myself. It’s something I really wanted to do for many years and it was that point in my career where I was like: Okay, I think the time is right and I can do this… Just starting to make a few new friends, I moved here in November so it has only been 6 months. It’s still quite early, but I really like it…

How did you discover your passion for music ?
My dad was a musician. He was like a soul/funk musician when I was a kid, so… He traveled all around the world playing music and he played guitar at home. I had lots of music playing in the house, Like when I was a kid all the band members were playing … So I always loved it from a very young age. I first performed at my kinder garden college show when I was 6 years old. so that was really the start of performing for me and I loved it so much!

So your dad Introduced you to country ?
My dad was soul, like Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, Prince and that type of stuff. My mother really loved country music ! She loved Shania Twain, she took me to my first concert. She loved Keith Urban and old old country.

Would you like to explore more music genres ?
Yes I mean, with my music you can hear a couple angles. It’s very pop and in a lot of ways, it has an R&B vibe to it. But for me, it’s just making music that I love ! And I definitely would label myself as a country singer. For sure country is my main genre, but I just want to make music that I love, that makes me happy and that I think other people will like. Genre is one of those things that disappears each day, I think it won’t be much of a ‘thing’ anymore!

Do you stop listening to music from other artists when you’re writing ?
No, I love listening to music, I’m constantly looking and searching for it. New artists and new music and every genre. I love music from every decade as well. Constantly, constantly listening to music.

Which artist is most often on your playlist ?
I listen to so many : Fleetwood Mac, Shawn Mendes, the new Keith Urban is so amazing. Kacey Musgraves, I’m obsessed with his last record. I also love Chance the Rapper.

Any artist you would like to collaborate with ?
I mean their’s soo many ! I played a show with Keith [Urban] but never collaborated with him, he’s great. he’s an artist that goes by the beat of his own drums. It would be a dream for me to collaborate. He’s not afraid to experiment, I find that inspiring. Dolly Parton, is such an inspiration, I want to meet her and pick her brain. I love Shawn Mendes, it would also be a dream collaboration. He’s Canadian too which is awesome …

Do you have any side interests, what was your dreams job as a kid ?
It was always music for me… I loved music, always wanted to be a singer, always. I love animals too, I mean it wouldn’t be another side dream but being around and having my own charity one day. My own foundation that would be something really cool, being an activate for mental illness, thats important to me.

How do you start writing a song ?
You know it kind of goes back and forth. Usually, I’ll starts with an idea, a concept like a lyric. This song is about this heartbreak feeling or else, and then I build off that. But sometimes I’ll get a melody in my head or a cool chord progression and start with it.

It’s a bit of both, I love lyrics, you know those lines in a song that just mixes you … that catch that common breath or exactly how you felt at that moment. As a writer, I try to have lyrics that are intelligent and cool, are meaningful, paired with a melody that matches.

Thats what music is about, synchronizing the two. You know, their’s so many songs that you love or that I love, and we don’t even know why we love it so much. But there just something about it that just makes us want to dance, make us want to cry … It’s about finding what it is that makes you feel that way.

Do you have any ritual before a show ?
Yeah, we kind of round up with band members and jump around. Go over the songs and moments we want to do and I’ll take a shot of whiskey before we go on stage. Say a little prayer, make sure everything is ok.

Ever had bad experiences on stage ?
yes, technical difficulties can make it hard sometimes. I wouldn’t say horrible experiences, but sometimes even when you’re collaborating you have awkward moments on stage and you just have to go with it.

What about the best moments ?
Yeah, it’s mostly good moments. I love so many parts of this industry. You know I really love to write, I love to record, I love everything. But when it comes to where I really feel home, it’s when I’m on stage around people. I love singing a song that makes people happy and dance. The fact that I get to do that for a job is so cool. Mostly we have good shows, their’s always something beautiful, a moment or a fan that I meet after the show that makes my entire night.

Big accomplishments you’d like to do ?
lot of things I’d like to do and accomplish. I’d like to perform at the Grand Ole Opry [in Nashville]. It would be a big moment on my bucket list. I would love to travel more. I’d love to go to see so many places. I’d love to go to Africa and South America, and Bali and Hawaii and kind of just see the world.

As an artist, I really just focus on music so much. I don’t think I’ve had a vacation that wasn’t work-related in years. I write a lot sitting in a room indoor, but I also want to be out of the room and see the world and learn about other cultures. You have to live life before you write about it, be inspired about it.

How about upcoming concerts ?
Yes, play quite a bit of shows this summer, all over the country I’m really excited to play those. It’s the first year headlining a show as well, as the main artist on the board, it was a big accomplishment for me. Also in the fall, I’ll be able to jump on a tour and see other cities.

Discover more about Madeline Merlo and her upcoming concerts on her Website

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/madeline-merlo-interview-with-rising-star/feed/0Newly Discovered Singer ZIM Share First Song from Debut EP – Must Listenhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/underground-artist-zim-debut-new-song/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/underground-artist-zim-debut-new-song/#respondWed, 04 Jul 2018 07:16:50 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49278 21 Year old singer ZIM lived in foster care for half of her life and won a radio contest to record this project. Now speaking up for others, this Talented Puerto Rican artist have quite a story to tell. Harlem-based independent singer and songwriter ZIM announced that her new debut EP ‘Sylmar’ will be released next month. […]

]]> 21 Year old singer ZIM lived in foster care for half of her life and won a radio contest to record this project. Now speaking up for others, this Talented Puerto Rican artist have quite a story to tell.

Harlem-based independent singer and songwriter ZIM announced that her new debut EP ‘Sylmar’ will be released next month. In celebration, she shared the first song from the project, “ZIM”. Produced by BHB, the track features ZIM’s own blend of R&B with pop & hip-hop sensibilities and highly emotive songwriting.

The song is rooted in linking past lovers to mary jane references : “The inspiration behind the song ‘Zim’ is just weed literally, the 21-year-old Puerto Rican creative explained to VIBE VIVA in an interview. “I got high when I wrote it, which is one way I can create. I like singing about emotions and in this song I enjoyed comparing the men I’ve been with through my life to certain weed strains and how they made me feel.”

At only 21 years old, ZIM has already lived well beyond her years with a life filled with great pain and struggle. She was in out of foster care for half of her youth and to this day is living on and off the streets of New York. The child of an addict father who witnessed the mistreatment of mother and who endured abuse herself, ZIM has experienced a large amount of pain and music has always been a way for her to escape her circumstances.

The Harlem native has seen her fair shares of ups and downs, but hasn’t allowed it be a burden on the path to her dreams. “I really don’t express regrets. Any situation I was in became a life lesson for me,” she said. Instead, she’s used her life path as inspiration in her music. “That’s how I get my inspiration to record music.,” she said. “Every song is a true story of what I’ve been through.”

She was discovered singing at a Harlem house party by her now managers (who founded Mandalae Worldwide) not long ago who were drawn in by her powerful voice. She later won a series of studio sessions from a local NY radio station where she recorded this new Sylmar project. Fully self taught and writing since she was a small child, she creates from a place of a pure authenticity and raw emotion. “[I’m] determined to make an impact in music,” she added. “This is all “I” have.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/underground-artist-zim-debut-new-song/feed/0Free Grand Concert at the Montreal Olympic Parkhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/free-grand-concert-at-the-montreal-olympic-park/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/free-grand-concert-at-the-montreal-olympic-park/#respondThu, 28 Jun 2018 13:23:20 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49112Music – Let yourself be whisked away to the world of The Thousand and One Nights with Rimsky-Korsakov’s famous symphonic suite Scheherazade – a classic to kick off the OSM Classical Spree. Maestro Kent Nagano invites you to join the OSM on a voyage from the Olympic Park’s Esplanade to the heart of legends from faraway […]

]]>Music – Let yourself be whisked away to the world of The Thousand and One Nights with Rimsky-Korsakov’s famous symphonic suite Scheherazade – a classic to kick off the OSM Classical Spree. Maestro Kent Nagano invites you to join the OSM on a voyage from the Olympic Park’s Esplanade to the heart of legends from faraway lands. Dive headfirst into the stories that have captured imaginations for centuries, from the intrepid Sinbad the Sailor to Aladdin’s mysterious lamp. The orchestra will be joined by Cirque Éloize in order to guarantee an evening of unforgettable entertainment. The grand concert is completely free of charge and will take place on Wednesday August 29th between 8:00pm and 10:00pm at the Montreal Olympic Park. The symphony which will be performed is Schéhérazade’s Symphonic Suite, op. 35. We’d love to see your “Classical Spree” events, share them on social media using the #VireeClassique. Enjoy !

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/free-grand-concert-at-the-montreal-olympic-park/feed/0Canadian Country Icon Shania Twain wowed Montrealhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/canadian-country-icon-shania-twain-wowed-montreal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/canadian-country-icon-shania-twain-wowed-montreal/#respondWed, 27 Jun 2018 14:02:12 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=49058Shania Twain wowed Montreal – Last night at the Bell Centre 16,000 fans were wowed by a Canadian Country Icon Shania Twain. Shania entered the Bell Centre in the middle of the Reds section (115) at 9:05 P.M. All of a sudden spot lights shinned on the entrance and there Shania was in a glitter […]

]]>Shania Twain wowed Montreal – Last night at the Bell Centre 16,000 fans were wowed by a Canadian Country Icon Shania Twain.

Shania entered the Bell Centre in the middle of the Reds section (115) at 9:05 P.M. All of a sudden spot lights shinned on the entrance and there Shania was in a glitter dress and cowboy hat. As she made her way to the stage her Montreal fans sure let her know how much they were looking forward to her show with a standing ovation. It was electric inside the Bell Centre. It sounded like the Canadiens had just won the Stanley Cup.

Shania Twain NOW Tour Montreal 2018 By: Kieron Yates – mtltimes.ca

Shania made her way through the crowd with security all around her, making sure to wave at everyone. As she made her way on to the stage she yelled out “Are you ready Montreal?” and started off with “Life’s About To Get Good”.

The concert lasted just over two hours and she nailed every song. The 52 year old Country Super Star sounded amazing. Song after song the crowd was dancing on their feet singing along. At one point in the show Shania yelled out, “Montreal you guys are awesomely load!”

Shania Twain NOW Tour Montreal 2018 By: Kieron Yates – mtltimes.ca

Shania also did a tribute and thanked all the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces. She was sitting on a guitar case and lifted to a smaller stage at the other end of the arena while she sang, “Your Still the One!”

A surprise to the fans was WWE Superstar wrestler Kevin Owens was in the house and was waving a sign that said “I love you Shania!” Shania noticed the sign and asked Kevin to escort her back to the main stage.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/canadian-country-icon-shania-twain-wowed-montreal/feed/0Someone Like You – The ADELE songbook starring Katie Markham – trailer (tickets for sale)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/someone-like-you-the-adele-songbook-starring-katie-markham-tickets-for-sale/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/someone-like-you-the-adele-songbook-starring-katie-markham-tickets-for-sale/#respondWed, 20 Jun 2018 22:06:40 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48844Katie Markham – With 2018 marking ten years since the sensational debut album 19 was released, Katie Markham brings an incredible performance to theatres across the UK, and now Canada, recreating the magic that the legendary Adele started a decade ago. When X Factor finalist Katie Markham was hand-picked by Adele to appear in BBC’s […]

]]>Katie Markham – With 2018 marking ten years since the sensational debut album 19 was released, Katie Markham brings an incredible performance to theatres across the UK, and now Canada, recreating the magic that the legendary Adele started a decade ago.

When X Factor finalist Katie Markham was hand-picked by Adele to appear in BBC’s ADELE Special, she never dreamed she would be both singing live with her idol on stage in London and launching a brand-new UK touring show, all within a year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4r_UKCGySQ

This immaculate concert production recreates the magic of Adele’s music from her three hit albums – 19, 21 and 25 – reminding audiences why they first fell in love with her beautiful music ten years ago. Katie states, “There is a real beauty to Adele’s music. I think that’s why it appeals to so many people, she lays raw emotion out for all the world to see.”

Featuring the smash hits Chasing Pavements, Make You Feel my Love, Set Fire to the Rain, Someone Like You, Rolling in the Deep, Hello and the multi-million seller Skyfall, as well as featuring a selection of songs by some of the legends that inspired Adele, Someone Like You is the quintessential show for any fan of Adele.

“You sounded brilliant!” – Adele

Katie has been singing and dancing since she was six years old, having trained at Joyce Mason School of Dance and Kimberley School of Dance in Scunthorpe. Singing remained in the background for a while due to her passion for dance but when Katie started winning singing talent contests at aged 15, she started to focus on her unique and stunning voice.

Katie continued to appear in various theatre and musical productions as well as festivals up and down the country. In 2013, she was approached to enter X Factor and got to the last 7 finalists, narrowly missing out on the judges’ houses stage. Katie emerged from the X Factor experience an entirely different person; as an artist with full confidence in her vocal ability. Not long afterwards, her agent entered her for a showcase as Adele and so the journey began.

In 2015, Katie was approached by producers of Adele Live at the BBC to appear on the show as part of an Adele tribute feature. Adele selected all the tributes herself and loved Katie’s audition video (see quotes above). She was selected as one of eight Adele performers to be in the BBC show and performed alongside her idol as part of the piece.

And so the Someone Like You show was born. Katie is absolutely thrilled to be leading the national theatre production; a show which gives her the chance to portray Adele in exactly the way she has always dreamed.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/someone-like-you-the-adele-songbook-starring-katie-markham-tickets-for-sale/feed/0Two free outdoor concerts at foot of Mount Royalhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/two-free-outdoor-concerts-at-foot-of-mount-royal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/two-free-outdoor-concerts-at-foot-of-mount-royal/#respondWed, 20 Jun 2018 14:02:27 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48826Two free outdoor concerts at foot of Mount Royal – In the tradition of the popular summer concerts that filled public parks with music in the early 20th century, wind and percussion ensembles Cambridge University Wind Orchestra and Harmonie Laval will present free performances at the foot of Mount Royal on two Thursday evenings in […]

]]>Two free outdoor concerts at foot of Mount Royal – In the tradition of the popular summer concerts that filled public parks with music in the early 20th century, wind and percussion ensembles Cambridge University Wind Orchestra and Harmonie Laval will present free performances at the foot of Mount Royal on two Thursday evenings in July.

The concerts will take place rain or shine (unless there’s a thunderstorm) on July 5 and 12 at the Mordecai-Richler Gazebo on Park Avenue, a stone’s throw from the Sir George-Étienne-Cartier monument. No reservations are required; simply bring a lawn chair.

A return to the evenings of yesteryear

Montrealers will be transported back to a time when folks would gather in verdant parks to enjoy an evening concert under a summer sky.

Music lovers can look forward to hearing two outstanding orchestras free of charge against an urban backdrop like no other. The event will also showcase this Mount Royal heritage site and restore the Mordecai-Richler gazebo to its original vocation.

Then, on July 12 at 7:30 p.m., under the direction of Patrick Morin, Harmonie Laval will present its Fiesta estivale. Spectators will notably hear music from such film classics as An American in Paris and Star Wars as well as pieces from groups like Beau Dommage and Earth, Wind & Fire.

These two exceptional events are sponsored by Square Phillips Hôtel & Suites, L’Appartement Hôtel and the Edison Student Residence.

About the orchestras

Founded in 1987, the Cambridge University Wind Orchestra, known for its high musical standards and friendly atmosphere, brings together top-level musicians from the University of Cambridge. As part of its first North American tour, which is being held to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the orchestra will give concerts in Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa.

Harmonie Laval is comprised of some 60 musicians: professionals, passionate amateurs and talented cégep and university students. This non-profit organization oversees the activities of three orchestras who, while actively contributing to the enrichment of the city’s musical culture, are also steadily building a reputation across Quebec for their considerable artistic achievements.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/two-free-outdoor-concerts-at-foot-of-mount-royal/feed/0Top 10 best concerts in MTL this week – Jazz Festhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/montreal-jazz-festival/top-10-best-concerts-in-mtl-this-week-jazz-fest/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/montreal-jazz-festival/top-10-best-concerts-in-mtl-this-week-jazz-fest/#respondTue, 19 Jun 2018 20:08:15 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48777Montreal Hosted the unique Francofolie’s festival last week at Place-des-arts, and now it’s time for the famous Jazz Fest to take over Montreal and echo trought the city street. With the Music scene being at one of the season’s highest peak, we know it can be hard and overwhelming to follow who’s performing for free […]

]]>Montreal Hosted the unique Francofolie’s festival last week at Place-des-arts, and now it’s time for the famous Jazz Fest to take over Montreal and echo trought the city street.

With the Music scene being at one of the season’s highest peak, we know it can be hard and overwhelming to follow who’s performing for free and who’s worth paying the tickets price ! That why we came up with a list of the Best and Cheapest upcoming Concerts available this week !

June 19Th – Washed Out – 30$

Don’t miss you’r chance to dance Tonight at l’Astral with electronic grooves from Ernest Greene musical alter-ego, Washed out. The American artist first came to popularity when his song ” Feel it all Around” was picked as the theme song for the Fred Armisen/Carrie Brownstein TV show Portlandia, who was followed by a debut album. He will be continuing his last year’s Mister Mellow tour that recently expanded to Montreal.

June 22nd – Tracyanne & Danny – 30 $

Tracyanne & Danny is a collaboration between Tracyanne Campbell from Camera Obscura and Danny Coughlan from Crybaby. They will be presenting their new EP at the very special Ministère, on St-laurent St. this Friday .

Tracyanne hails from Glasgow, Scotland where Danny is based in Bristol, England. They are not a diverting curio or a wee stop on the road to someplace else. It is a shared artistic aesthetic, forged over time. They have figured out how to fit round each other and work together, creating a rewarding musical synergy.

June 26th – Chad Valley – Quai des Brumes – 14 $

The English Eletronic artist and singer Hugo Manuel, better known by his stage name Chad Valley, will be presenting is most recent CD, Imaginary Music at the amazing and underground Quai des Brumes. He has also released two EPs, various singles and three full-length albums, ‘Young Hunger’, ‘Entirely New Blue’ who have been used in many Hollywood movies. This concert is most definitely an underprice show for such a talented artist !

June 26 and 27th – Charlotte Gainsbourg – 62 $

In her major Festival debut, the internationally renowned actress and singer brings us Rest, the most personal album of her career, featuring the eponymous single co-written with Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo, one half of electrifying duo Daft-Punk. The Female artist of the year at the 2018 Victoire de la Musique, arrives to charm us with her angelic voice and powerful electronic beats at the Mtelus for two nights.

June 27th – Old Sea Brigade + Pierce Brothers – 15 $

Joined by the Pierce Brothers, this indie band is guarantee to make you feel fresh, joyful and happy. Playing at le Petit campus together for only 15 $ this amazing combo is definitely worth checking out.

June 28th – Simon Kearney – 10$

Quebecois Simon Kearney will be playing an intimate show at l‘Escrogriffe Bar to perform his new music. This very talented Francophone artist have gifted us with many great new grooves inspired by soul and Rock’n’Roll, sometime even adding touch of the 60’s and 70’s musical era.

June 28th – Simon Kearney – l’Escogriffe Bar – 10 $ – Franco

June 28th – DumbFounddead – 24$

Also known as Jonathan Park, DFD, or just plain Dumb, rapper Dumbfoundead delivers his comedic rhymes in an effortless style, a combination that served him well while on the MC battle circuit.

Born in Argentina but raised in the Koreatown neighborhood of Los Angeles, Dumbfoundead first made his name by battling MCs on the Grind Time Now battle circuit and suffering only one loss to rapper the Saurus. He made his official debut on album in 2011 when he released DFD on his own Dumbfoundead label.

Get ticket for his Show at le Belmont,

June 28th – DumbFounddead – 24$ – Belmont – Rap

June 29th. – Metronomy – 40$

It’s a first Festival visit for Metronomy, the outstanding group celebrated for their refreshingly dance-tastic electro-pop sound. Almost 20 years into a career filled with live festival triumphs around the world, the English quartet is back with their latest release, Summer 08. The only thing left to do is surrender to their groove because this band will blow you’r mind at the MTelus

See also Dylan Menzie on July 2nd

the Prince Edward island‘s artist will be performing at Casa del Polo on July 2nd. Menzie made an indelible mark in the talent-rich Atlantic Canadian music market with his debut EP, Heather Avenue, in 2013. The release – which earned Music PEI Award nominations and acclaim from industry influencers – led to high-profile performances throughout the Maritimes, including opening slots for City & Colour and Ron Sexsmith.

In 2016, he released sophomore album, Adolescent Nature, followed his top-four placement in CBC’s 2016 Searchlight Competition. In 2017, the artist was nominated in 7 different categories at PEI Music Awards and earned the entertainer of the year awards.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/montreal-jazz-festival/top-10-best-concerts-in-mtl-this-week-jazz-fest/feed/0Metropolitan Orchestra Performing on the Mont-Royalhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/metropolitan-orchestra-performing-on-the-mont-royal/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/metropolitan-orchestra-performing-on-the-mont-royal/#respondSat, 16 Jun 2018 12:39:24 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48601Montreal – As part of the Campbell Concerts, the Montreal Metropolitan Orchestra will be performing a very special concert at the top of the Mont-Royal. With a breath-taking view over the city, you will not want to miss this one of a kind concert. The Campbell concerts have been around since 1924 thanks to the […]

]]>Montreal – As part of the Campbell Concerts, the Montreal Metropolitan Orchestra will be performing a very special concert at the top of the Mont-Royal. With a breath-taking view over the city, you will not want to miss this one of a kind concert. The Campbell concerts have been around since 1924 thanks to the generosity of a Montreal based lawyer, M Charles S. Campbell, who was passionated about classical music. When he passed away, part of his heritage went to the city funds destined to outdoor concerts in Montreal.

Free Outdoor Concert

This summer’s concert will be directed by Yannick Nézet-Séguin. There will be three pieces by Tchaïkovski, performed throughout the evening:

The concert will be completely FREE of charge, you only need to make your way up the mountain to listen to the concert. The concert will take place on Friday July 27th 2018 from 8:00 pm until 10:15 pm, so don’t forget to mark your calendars to enjoy a live concert against the sun setting over Montreal. Make sure to arrive as early as possible to grab some of the best seats. For more information and updates, click here to view the official Facebook page.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/art/metropolitan-orchestra-performing-on-the-mont-royal/feed/0What’s Happening in Montreal – Live Music – Comedy – Theatrehttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/whats-happening-in-montreal-3/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/whats-happening-in-montreal-3/#respondFri, 15 Jun 2018 21:06:30 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48595It was 60 years ago that amateur boxer Berry Gordy, Jr. established a recording company called “Hitsville, U.S.A.” in his hometown of Detroit. Six decades later, that small record label, which changed its name to “Motown”, has become a rock music institution, which made such singers and groups like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson […]

]]>It was 60 years ago that amateur boxer Berry Gordy, Jr. established a recording company called “Hitsville, U.S.A.” in his hometown of Detroit. Six decades later, that small record label, which changed its name to “Motown”, has become a rock music institution, which made such singers and groups like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, the Four Tops and the Temptations into international superstars, and songs like “ABC”, “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”, “Shop Around” and “Dancing in the Streets” a major part of the history of rock music.

And in the spirit of the golden age of the Motown Sound, evenko will be presenting the hit Broadway musical “Motown: the Musical” for an eight performance run at Salle Wilfrid Pelletier of Place des Arts from June 19 to 24.

“Motown is such a special record label because its songs were so timeless and how it managed to spread a message of unity, love and bringing people together, which it did so well,” said Justin Reynolds, who portrays Motown’s legendary singer/songwriter/producer Smokey Robinson (who also fronted the group the Miracles).

Reynolds, who has been with the Motown: The Musical national touring company since last September, admits that it’s a dream job – and a blessing — to portray Robinson in the show, who is his longtime idol. Although his favorite song by Robinson is his 1970s solo hit “Cruising”, the Smokey Robinson song that he enjoys performing is “You Really Got A Hold on Me”, especially within the context that he sings that song in the show.

“It happens during the mid-60s when the Motown Revue tour has a performance in Birmingham, Alabama, and a gunshot is heard before the show starts,” he said. “Berry wanted to stop the show and have everyone go home, but Smokey decides to go onstage first in place of the usual opening act, which was the Supremes. He then confronts an officer from the Birmingham police department and starts to sing that song in front of him, especially the opening line ‘I don’t like you, but I love you’; it’s quite an iconic moment.”

For more information about “Motown: The Musical”, go to www.evenko.ca.

* * *

For those who can’t wait until Just For Laughs to get their summer comedy fix, then check out the latest edition of the Haboubs and Laloos Comedy Show. This bilingual and multi-cultural comedy showcase will take place on June 23, 7:30 p.m., at the Vanier College auditorium, located at 865 St. Croix Avenue in Ville St. Laurent.

Born in Windsor and raised in Toronto, Merheje comes from a Lebanese background, in which he says his family members were very expressive people. “You would get yelled at one moment, and then become very loving towards each other the next moment,” said Merheje during a recent phone interview from his home in L.A. “They were very honest, and not passive aggressive. In fact, my father is one of the funniest people I know without even trying. He does and says whatever he wants with no regrets. Living with my family is almost like a sitcom because everyone is funny and they are always laughing.”

Known for his in your face, stream of consciousness style of comedy, in which he tackles not only his personal experiences, but also topics such as terrorism, sex, drugs and the club scene, Merheje also believes that stand-up comedy is a great vehicle to end people’s bias towards many ethnic communities. “Stand-up comedy gets people the opportunity to check out what different ethnicities are all about. It gives them no excuse to have any more prejudices and stereotypes,” he said.

Tickets to the Haboubs and Laloos Comedy Night on June 23 cost $20 each. For more information, call 514-264-9301 or go to www.haboubsandlaloos.com.

* * *

With the announcement this past week that the 2026 World Cup will take place in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico – with Montreal as one of its sites – soccer fever will certainly rise to new heights on the pitch over the next eight years.

And in that spirit, the GOAL Initiative, which raises funds for organizations that help support families, youth, social activities and education such as Right to Play, Share the Warmth Foundation and Montreal Community Cares Foundation, will hold its annual soccer tournament tomorrow, June 17, at Percival Molson Stadium starting at 9 a.m. Admission is free.

Supported by Canada Soccer and hosted by Jason Rockman of CHOM and Patrick Langlois of Rouge FM, the event will feature an ongoing outdoor soccer tournament featuring 23 teams representing an array of local bars, restaurants and industries such as Burgundy Lion, evenko, and Bombardier. There will also be plenty of food and drink, activities, kiosks, a soccer boutique, music, and two 2018 World Cup soccer matches that will play on the stadium’s giant screen: Mexico vs. German at 11 a.m. and Switzerland vs. Brazil at 2 p.m.

* * *

Tomorrow night (June 17) is your last chance to catch the Cote St. Luc Dramatic Society’s (CSLDS) latest production, which is Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s 1968 musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. And the main question was if the troupe of intergenerational singers, dancers and actors would be able to pull off the challenge of performing a major musical in which the entire narrative was told entirely in song.

The answer is a resounding “yes”, and the CSLDS passed this challenge with flying colors … technicolors, that is!

The show is based on the Old Testament story of Joseph, a young dreamer who is the son of Jacob, yet garners the envy of his brothers because of the prophetic dreams he envisions. As a result of their jealousy, the brothers throw him in a pit and have him sold into slavery in Egypt. Yet somehow, through his never ending prophetic dreams, he gains the confidence of the Pharoah, and becomes his personal confidante, while Jacob believes the story his other sons tell him of Joseph’s fate, in which they say he is dead.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” has all the characteristics of what has made a typical CSLDS production such a hit with community theatergoers, from the immersive theatre in the round setting, the colorfully authentic costumes, the energetic dance numbers and the overall professional manner each performer, whether they be a lead or a member of the chorus, conducted themselves onstage.

And when I attended the May 31 performance, this relatively young theatrical troupe displayed a highly admirable sense of traditional showmanship and “the show must go on” attitude, when certain members of the cast had to deal with physical injuries, a bout with bronchitis, and personal matters, their fellow cast members stepped up to the plate and made sure that night’s performance would go off without a hitch, which it certainly did, and it won a whole new sense of respect from that night’s audience (myself included).

What else makes “Joseph” such a delight to watch and experience is how each musical number is done in a different musical genre (my favorites include Pharoah done a la Elvis Presley, circa 1956, and when Joseph’s brothers and Jacob sing the number “Those Canaan Days” in the style of 1960s French singer Jacques Brel).

However, Sam Boucher shines in the lead as Joseph, giving the role the right blend of strength, empathy and respect; and the duo of Jeanne Motulsky and Nicole Arrage as the show’s narrators are superb, as they excel in their jobs of guiding the audience through the story of Joseph, and really helps the show flow so masterfully every time they are onstage.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is another fine addition to the Cote St. Luc Dramatic Society’s growing resume of impressive, Broadway-quality productions. They have continued to strike an important blow to how increasingly popular and important community theatre is, and how the CSLDS is quickly becoming a major force in the Montreal theatrical scene.

Also, tonight (June 16) is your last chance to check out WISTA’s latest production “The Addams Family: A Musical” at the Riverdale High School auditorium. Based on Charles Addams’ famous cartoons that appeared in the New Yorker magazine, as well as the popular 1960s ABC sitcom and the series of movies from the 1990s, the musical – which focuses on grown up daughter Wednesday about to be engaged to a man who is not like her rather unusual family – is just like the Addams clan: creepy and spooky, mysterious and kooky, and altogether hooky. There are stand out performances from every member of this cast, especially Nour Malek as matriarch Morticia, Tricia Fitz as Wednesday, and scene stealer Daniel Wilkinfeld as Uncle Fester. For more information, go to www.WISTA.ca.

* * *

It was exactly five years ago that a devastating flood affected parts of southern Alberta that resulted in powerful mudslides, 32 states of emergency across that part of the province, more than 100,000 people evacuated from their homes, five fatalities and over $6 billion in damages.

Tonight (June 17), the Discovery Channel marks the fifth anniversary of this “Flood of Floods” with “Alberta Floods: Rogue Earth”, which airs at 9 p.m. The documentary will not only focus on the flood itself and the damages it created, it will also focus on the courage, strength and resilience of the people of that affected area, as they recall their respective stories of the flood and its aftermath through exclusive interviews, video footage and never-before-seen raw footage that captures what this “Flood of Floods” was all about, and the lessons that have been learned when it comes to being better prepared for future natural disasters.

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/whats-happening-in-montreal-3/feed/0Ash makes her Soulful R&B debut with ”Lover Friend” – Listen Nowhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ash-soulful-debut-lover-friend/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ash-soulful-debut-lover-friend/#respondWed, 13 Jun 2018 17:53:16 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48378Oahu, Hawaii-bred newcomer Ashley Lilinoe is in full bloom and is ready to make her big debut. The 22-year-old singer released her new soulful track “Lover Friend” on Friday (June 8) Ash previously competed as a semi-finalist on American Idol, where she seduced the crowd and gained a golden ticket accompanied by her acoustic guitar and outstanding voice. She […]

]]>Oahu, Hawaii-bred newcomer Ashley Lilinoe is in full bloom and is ready to make her big debut. The 22-year-old singer released her new soulful track “Lover Friend” on Friday (June 8)

Ash previously competed as a semi-finalist onAmerican Idol, where she seduced the crowd and gained a golden ticket accompanied by her acoustic guitar and outstanding voice. She first became popular on her Youtube channel in 2013 after posting music videos and covers showing her rather exceptional guitar skill and impressive voice.

Ashley Lilinoe was also crowned Miss Hawaii at the age of 17. After spending her youth on the island, the budding artist is currently living on an organic farm in Kelowna, British Columbia with her partner, where she’s cultivating, seeding and transplanting crops. She is supremely focused on sustainability, which is also reflected in her music and artistry. “Our buying and trashing mindset has encouraged polluted water sources and growing lands, and millions of post-consumer landfill sites that ooze the toxicity of a greedy and scarce culture.” she says. “I played a part in this until I woke up.”

Her identity is deeply connected to the physical world, with her surname translating to “fine mist” in Hawaiian, and her nom de plume Ash referring to “what remains when all is set to flame,” a form of rebirth.

Ashley Lilinoe’s healing music is written from the heart and her genuine passion along with her mellow joyful vibe are all incredibly satisfying to watch. Her music has been self-described as “Acoustic neo-soul meets jazzy R&B flowing with a bluesy reggae.” and her songs are a journey in themselves, exploring what it means to love yourself and the earth around you.

With this track however, Ash start a new promising era, sharing her incredible talent and energy outside of her usual acoustic set.

Listen to ‘Lover Friend’ today !

Her sensual bluesy voice that she now mixes confidently with other instruments and exciting new musical arrangement, crafts a unique cocktail of slinky, earthy soul-R&B. Think the grassroots queer Sade, fused with the likes of Tash Sultana, SZA and Jhene Aiko.

“On the purest side of the Lover is one that embarks on a journey of healing their heart through loving it’s self unconditionally; that is you being your greatest friend,” Ash says of her debut.

“In this story I then go on meeting reflections of myself, and had loved each one. Innocent and confusing, it was all healing and the coming to learning that our friendship will always be the most magical connection that I’ve truly desired. To end, it comes full circle. How the song starts and who it started with is now and will always be that one eternal, Lover friend.”

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/ash-soulful-debut-lover-friend/feed/0F1 Crescent Street Party – Fast and the Furious (today’s highlights)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/f1-crescent-street-party/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/f1-crescent-street-party/#respondFri, 08 Jun 2018 12:23:51 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=48116F1 Crescent Street Party – The celebration continues on Crescent Street all day today Friday and mother nature promises to warm things up (finally)! The second day of festivities on Crescent begin at 11 am with the opening of all the kiosks, providing festival goers with new trends, new tastes, great cars and amazing musical […]

]]>F1 Crescent Street Party – The celebration continues on Crescent Street all day today Friday and mother nature promises to warm things up (finally)!

The second day of festivities on Crescent begin at 11 am with the opening of all the kiosks, providing festival goers with new trends, new tastes, great cars and amazing musical performances.

Here are some of the exciting things to see and do todayare:

At 12 noon on Friday: Attend the weight-in of all boxers that will participate in the June 9 Gala Grand Prix at the Casino de Montréal. See Marie-Ève Dicaire the NABF Champion, and her opponent, Yamila Belen Abellaneda, plus all the other boxers participating on the card at 12 noon on the Corona stage for the official weight-in.

Feel like discovering new wines? Come and savour wines from Sélections Fréchette, and sample some of those special mixes produced by their guest mixologist. For connoisseurs and others!

Come and visit the Céline Dion Collection line of handbags, luggage and Small leather goods and add a touch of fashion to your life.

On a social responsibility note, come a try special glasses that will simulate the effect of alcohol or cannabis, then try to walk the white line.

The retro “Fast and the Furious” arcade games at the Kanetix booth were a hit on Thursday. Come and check your driving skills on those vintage arcade machines.

Check out the four amazing cars that will participate in the Run 1000 Rally in late June. Meet the owners of the rally and find out more about the event.

The Pit Stop Competition also challenges all festival-goers! All day long, the public is able to test their abilities to change tires on a race car.

]]>PIKNIC Electronic Montreal 2018 – Perfect liftoff for Piknic Électronik’s 16th season! Piknickers gathered by the thousands to celebrate the grand opening and reunite with their favourite patches of greenery and favourite spots on the dance floor at Parc Jean-Drapeau’s Plaine des Jeux. Summer is officially in session and the party’s just starting. Here’s an overview of what’s coming in June. Get ready for a wild month!

Piknic #5 (June 10th)

It’s a Belgian invasion at the Solotech stage, as we welcome highly anticipated superstar Amelie Lens in the headline spot. Ahead of this thunderous finale, we’ll hear her countryman Farrago‘s elegant take on techno, and our own Laura Scavo‘s dynamic beats. Local lights Bolting Bits will present the Moog Audio stage, where England’s Seb Wildblood will explore the deeper side of electronic music. Opening the day, Montreal’s Silktits, followed by Toronto’s Roberto, will provide chillness, funk and a mix of percussive rhythms and atmospheric rollers.

Get ready for an absolutely titanic birthday party, as we celebrate 30 years of Paris’ Rex Club at the Solotech stage. This explosive program will feature Louisahhh B2BMaelstrom (FR-US), Traumer (FR) and formidable Rex Club resident Molly (FR) in the grand finale! Montreal’s Honeydrip will open the Moog Audio stage with some sun-kissed house music, before passing the baton to Serbia’s master chef X-Coast: an absolute character who’ll hit us with a heavy dose of 90’s rave nostalgia.

It’s a St-Jean special at Piknic, and we’re celebrating with an all-local lineup across both stages, highlighting Quebec’s incredibly diverse range of talent. CRi will headline the Solotech stage with a live set full of twists and turns. Also on the menu: Ryan Playground‘s range of bass music and Clarian‘s hypnotic mix of styles. At the Moog Audio stage, the day starts off with Apportez Votre Vin before Coach Vic takes over to lead us down a soulful path. Finally, the one and only Tommy Kruise will get things crunk as only he can, delivering all the Hip Hop, Trap and House music you can shake a leg to.

Music lovers will be able to dance until the very last night of June, with another OFF-PIKNIC special event: Anjunadeep Open Air: Montréal. A true authority in deep sounds, the British Anjunadeep label is renowned for such special events presented in exterior locations of exceptional character. This popular tour’s stop at la Plaine des Jeux is presented in collaboration with îleSoniq and I Love Neon.

There’s something for everybody this June at Piknic Électronik. We’ll handle the music and the vibe, you just need to fill up a picnic basket and bring your friends. See you on the dance floor!

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/piknic-electronic-montreal-2018/feed/0The Brooks launch Electrifying new EP at l’Astral – Sold out (Photo)http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-brooks-electrifying-new-ep-launch-at-lastral/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-brooks-electrifying-new-ep-launch-at-lastral/#respondSat, 02 Jun 2018 17:23:47 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=47829It’s not just friends and families that reunited with the Brooks Tuesday night for an intimate set, it’s also their dedicated and loyal fans that danced unconditionally all night while discovering the four new singles. It was the perfect way to celebrate the upcoming Jazz festival. The Montreal band delivered an outstanding performance presenting their […]

]]>It’s not just friends and families that reunited with the Brooks Tuesday night for an intimate set, it’s also their dedicated and loyal fans that danced unconditionally all night while discovering the four new singles. It was the perfect way to celebrate the upcoming Jazz festival.

The Montreal band delivered an outstanding performance presenting their last EP : “Free Wheelin’Walking” at the sold out location in Place-des-arts before leaving for a European tour.

The 8 talented band members played a 2 hr long set, adding tracks from their previous album Pain & Bliss, with groovy instrumental jams along with electrifying solos from each band member.

The Soul singer, Alan Prater, who joined the band for their first non-instrumental record – Pain & Bliss – back in 2016, delivered an impressive prestation with his exceptional voice, natural funky grooves and insanely contagious energy.

Already back in 2015, when The Brooks took the stage at the Jazz festival in Montreal, critics claimed that if you closed your eyes you could almost hear James Brown, last night the ressemblance was striking.

The crowd celebrated the 70’s infused funk-Soul- music with such a joyful vibe turning every corner into an intense dance floor.

The Brooks passion and chemistry is so genuine and their energy on stage has always managed to bring another level to the party … their live act is an underrated gem of Montreal that will bring you back to Chicago and relive the funky-Soul era.

We will be lucky to see the band in August, right here in Quebec, at Osheaga, Levis’ Jazz Festival, and at the Naufrageur in Carleton-sur-Mer. Many tour dates will be announced in the weeks to come.

The Brooks consist of eight brilliant musicians, mainly players for hire, that have all worked alongside major artists:

the singer : Alan Prater, (Micheal Jackson, The Jacksons)
known around Montreal jazz scene as a legend

« The Brooks deliver a full on 70’s infused funk fest jam. Their musical agility raises the bar of musicianship to a whole new level. I can literally see James Brown and Prince looking down and nodding their approval that The Brooks are now carrying on the flame of soulful funk. »
– Ron Roxtar, Curtainsup

« This one’s a sparse, funk rumble with a growling vocal that evokes the best of a certain James Brown. »
– Bill Buckley, Soul and Jazz and Funk

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/the-brooks-electrifying-new-ep-launch-at-lastral/feed/0Troye Sivan Performing in Laval this Fallhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/troye-sivan-performing-in-laval-this-fall/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/troye-sivan-performing-in-laval-this-fall/#respondSat, 02 Jun 2018 10:00:29 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=47857Concert – Troye Sivan is an Australian singer, songwriter, actor and Youtube personality. He has already realised his first album in 2015, titled Blue Neighbourhood which included the top single Youth which became Troye Sivan’s first single to enter the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He is about to realise his second album, Bloom, and […]

]]>Concert – Troye Sivan is an Australian singer, songwriter, actor and Youtube personality. He has already realised his first album in 2015, titled Blue Neighbourhood which included the top single Youth which became Troye Sivan’s first single to enter the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He is about to realise his second album, Bloom, and will be touring the United States and Canada to promote it. And of course he will be coming to the Montreal area and we cannot wait ! Although this event is a few months away, Troye Sivan’s concerts tend to sell out rapidly, so make sure you book your ticket sooner rather than later.

Bloom by Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan will be performing at the Place Bell in Laval on October 11th 2018. Tickets for the concert will be going on sale on June 8th 2018, so make sure to check out Evenko‘s page next Friday. For more exciting concerts coming in Montreal and the surrounding areas, click here. Artists such as Thirty Seconds to Mars, Sam Smith, Vance Joy, Halsey and many others will be performing throughout the Summer and early Fall. Enjoy !

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/troye-sivan-performing-in-laval-this-fall/feed/0Jessie Reyez free concert Montreal Jazz Festivalhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-free-concert-montreal-jazz-festival/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-free-concert-montreal-jazz-festival/#respondThu, 31 May 2018 14:12:39 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=47732Montreal Jazz Festival – The Montreal International Jazz Festival is presenting its 39th edition this year, a big event which promises to be even bigger next year, when it will stage its 40th edition. But this is 2018, and what the producers of this annual feast announced for the outdoor section of the event that […]

]]>Montreal Jazz Festival – The Montreal International Jazz Festival is presenting its 39th edition this year, a big event which promises to be even bigger next year, when it will stage its 40th edition. But this is 2018, and what the producers of this annual feast announced for the outdoor section of the event that starts next month is already quite attractive for both—lovers of jazz and all its genres, and lovers of popular music in general. Remember that the Jazz Fest always includes other kinds of music such as salsa, flamenco, and of course, rock.

Two major free outdoor concerts are part of the program, the first, on July 3 at 9:30 p.m. at the TD Stage in the Place des Festivals (Jeanne Mance and de Maisonneuve) will feature Jessie Reyez. She is an R&B Canadian revelation and the winner of the Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist of the Year. The other major free concert will be the closing one, on July 7 at 9:30 p.m. at the same TD Stage and will feature the rock band The War on Drugs. This American quartet also has impressive credentials: they won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album for their hit “A Deeper Understanding.”

Some of the other artists that will be performing at the outdoor section of the Jazz Festival are Boulevards, “incarnating the funk revival in a direct lineage from Prince and Rick James” (June 29, Place des Festivals). Those who love Latin rhythms will be happy to see the return of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra with all that salsa (June 30, Place des Festivals). For those who will be looking for more diversity, Nomadic Massive (July 2, Place des Festivals) will perform a “unique rap-jazz fusion with lyrics in English, French, Créole, Spanish, and Arabic.” Bossa nova, that delicate and sensual rhythm from Brazil will come to the Jazz Fest via Greece, in the voice of Magda Giannikou and the instrumental accompaniment of her Magda Banda (June 28, Rio Tinto Stage, Ste. Catherine and Jeanne Mance).

From New Brunswick singer-songwriter David Myles will “unfold a sound often called folk-jazz” (July 5, Rio Tinto Stage). Hannah Williams & The Affirmations are presented as “the finest English jazz musicians of the Moment.” They should be delighting the audience at the Rio Tinto Stage, on July 6.

The World Stage, located at the corner of Clark and de Maisonneuve will offer a variety of musical styles and genres. (All of these concerts are at 8 p.m.) Elida Almeida from Cape Verde is one of those artists that should catch our attention, “On her second album, Kebrada, the artists declares her African allegiance through Cape Verdean rhythms laced with Latin accents” (June 28). One of my favourites, Florence K, will be presenting her new album “Estrellas” where the songs, written by Alex Cuba, reflect Afro-Cuban and Latin influences (June 30).

As usual, the Jazz Fest also provides ample space for families and children, in particular, La Petite École du jazz (the Little School of Jazz) offering the opportunity for kids to familiarize with jazz in a playful environment. This event designed for kids will run from June 28 to July 7 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Festival goers should also be aware that this event is also accompanied by numerous kiosks and makeshift bars and bistros where they can enjoy food and drinks in between shows.

The Montreal International Jazz Festival will be held from June 28 to July 7. For information about the schedule of all concerts, locations, and other pertinent details, visit www.montrealjazzfest.com

]]>http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/musics/jessie-reyez-free-concert-montreal-jazz-festival/feed/0Imagine Monkland 2018 unveil programhttp://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/imagine-monkland-2018-unveil-program/
http://mtltimes.ca/Montreal/entertainment/festivals/imagine-monkland-2018-unveil-program/#respondTue, 29 May 2018 12:32:08 +0000http://mtltimes.ca/?p=47655Imagine Monkland 2018 unveil program – After 16 months of receiving the reigns of Arts Week from Paul Cargnello and following in his footsteps, three entrepreneurs – Luca Palladino, Adrienn Lukacs and René Bernal – have transformed the organization into an arts and culture dynamo for NDG in which artists and local merchants team up […]

]]>Imagine Monkland 2018 unveil program – After 16 months of receiving the reigns of Arts Week from Paul Cargnello and following in his footsteps, three entrepreneurs – Luca Palladino, Adrienn Lukacs and René Bernal – have transformed the organization into an arts and culture dynamo for NDG in which artists and local merchants team up to provide residents with unique experiences.

Their latest creation is Imagine Monkland, a 3-day festive pomegranate that explodes onto the avenue June 22nd-23rd-24th. Featuring circus acts LaboKracBoom, the African-Colombian percussive blast of Montreal’s GKO (Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra) and the extra-terrestrial creatures of Melanie Stuy and Mathieu René, Imagine Monkland is a family-friendly re-imagining of what the main artery of a neighbourhood can look like. And already four weeks before the event, Imagine Monkland has already sold out its kiosque spaces boding well for the near future.

“We create events to recreate the spaces around us and allow residents to express themselves through art”, says Luca Palladino, “We want everyone coming to Imagine to be moving, grooving or making art. That’s what summer is all about, shaking off those winter blues, taking to the streets and mixing it up with the masses.”

For their First Ever Edition, the programming team has carefully selected bands that epitomize NDG and its musical vibe. Ranging from old time to rock to hip-hop to electronic space robot music, the sounds will keep the crowds taping their feet. Below is a list of what to expect on this unexpected ride.

Musical highlights

Two stages will offer musical programming during the three days of the festival.

Saturday, June 23rd

Imagine Monkland 2018 Gypsie Kumbia Orchestra

Gypsy Kumbia Orchestra’s (GKO) original flavour invites audiences to experience movement and freedom. Influenced by dance and music from Colombia and Eastern Europe, this eclectic band has been taking over dance floors across Canada, Europe and South America on its numerous tours.

Oliver Forest combines multiple genres to create a unique music using ambient sounds and colourful chords, along with rock and alternative vibes. Oliver Forest released their self-titled debut album last fall.

Sarahmée, aka owner of the beat, erupted onto Montreal and Paris rap stages in 2015 with her first album, Légitime, with her sick voice and mad talent. Ever since her addictive rhymes and slick production have made Sarahmée the next one to plug in your ears.

Imagine Monkland 2018 NAJ

Sunday, June 24th

Although Imagine is not an official St-Jean event, it will highlight the diversity and musical cultural heritage with several original musical acts including:

Las Mechas, a musical collective whose Jarocho-style comes directly from Veracruz. Invigorating, necessary, poignant, these five women use typical instruments from the region and a harp along with their harmonized voices to pound out powerful hymns that will leave no one indifferent.

É.T.É., born from the meeting of three atypical musicians, this is the Québécois folk sound at its most original with jazz and progressive rock influences. Welcome the summer solstice by dancing to the sound of jigs, Irish bouzouki, violin and raise your glass to Québec’s b-day.

Body movin’

Imagine Monkland DJ Dance Party – (Friday evening, 5 PM – 10 PM) – To launch the festival we invite you to a 5@10 cocktail dance party featuring legendary Montreal-based international DJ and collector of rare musical gems Andy Williams (The Goods, Variations in Time, Jazz Amnesty Sound System) and Futureboy, a local hood DJ who will bring some serious dance grooves.

Urban and Family Yoga – Moksha Yoga will once again be offering its free yoga classes as it highlights 10 years of serving the community. Connect your body and breathing and relax your mind. Bring your mat, towel and water.

Imagine Monkland 2018 LaboKracBoom

Special programming

The Homespun Parade (Saturday, June 23rd, 2 PM to 5P M, Sunday in case of rain) – the festival has a creature-themed parade! The parade will be launching from NDG Park at 3 PM and will feature Giant Puppets as well as the school bands from Côte-St-Luc and Marymount Academy.

Family Fun – plunge into a toy box of your imagination as you create monsters and creatures out of endless art supplies. PAAL and the NDG Art Hive team up to offer this open-air art studio with many possibilities.

Optical illusion Creatures – Frédéric Chabot has practiced urban art for over 15 years, contributing to individual and collective murals in Montreal and across Canada. He will be creating optical illusions for Imagine Monkland involving creatures and monsters.

Outdoor terraces and lounge areas – Soak up the sun while enjoying a 5@7 or brunch with these amazing terraces available for only 3 days.

Circus Show – LaboKracBoom presents Chute libre (Saturday, June 23rd, 9 PM). The little big circus troupe LaboKracBoom presents an eye-popping display of parkour mixed with circus mixed with contemporary dance for a show as beautiful as it is breathtaking.

Imagine Market – over 50 local merchants, artisans, dance studios, henna activities, jewellery and food trucks await you in this great big street sale. The Imagine Market opens on Friday at 5 PM and closes on Sunday at 7 PM.